Jere Jerome Dirker

Jere Jerome Dirker, passed away on April 16, 2025, in Pontiac, Michigan, leaving a legacy of warmth and camaraderie. Born on December 30, 1941, in Saginaw, Michigan, Jere's journey through life was marked by his friendliness, sense of humor and most generous heart, traits that endeared him to all who were fortunate enough to cross his path.

Jere's early days were spent in the halls of St. Frederick's Catholic School, from where he graduated in 1959. These formative years laid the foundation for his impressive work ethic and good-natured personality. Jere's professional life was characterized by dedication and loyalty; after a brief tenure at Pontiac Motors, he devoted over 30 years to General Motors in Pontiac, retiring in 1992. Retirement was not a time for idleness for Jere; he continued to apply his talents as a greenskeeper at Pine Lake Golf course and later at Pontiac Country Club until 2003.

An exceptional athlete in high school, Jere's skills shone through in basketball, football, and hockey. His love for sports persisted throughout his life, as evidenced by his passion for golfing and his support for the Detroit Tigers and Lions. Jere's competitive spirit was equally evident in his love for card games, with Euchre and Pinochle being his favorites. Off the field and away from the card table, Jere was a master of his domain, maintaining a meticulous and beautiful yard that was the envy of many. With this passion and kind heart, his daughter Jane would often arrive at her home to find Jere working in her yard. Jere was also a member of the Eagles.

A beloved man, Jere leaves behind his twin brother Gary Dirker, a daughter Jane and her husband Matt DeRousse. He was preceded in death by his son Bo Dirker in 1986. His legacy continues through his grandchildren Kristina and Chris Doyle, Marlayana and Evan West, and his great-grandchildren Nicholas, Julia, and Jack Doyle, and Henry West. The dear uncle of Jeremy Dirker and great-uncle of Letty & Denver Dirker. The memory of his late brother Brian Dirker, and parents Harold and Grayce Dirker, hold a special place in the family's heart.

Jere's life was enriched by the deep bonds he formed with his friends. Bernie and Nancy Gross, Teddy Stephens, Joe and Barb Sharpe, Jumbo Kennedy, Chuck and Jodi Senkyr, Joe and Tracie Spatafore, along with many more will fondly remember the laughter and camaraderie that Jere brought into their lives.

Jere Dirker's legacy will be cherished and kept alive in the stories shared by his loved ones and the immeasurable impact he had on the lives he touched. As we bid farewell to a man of remarkable character, we celebrate the life he lived so fully and the gentle footprints he left on the hearts of many.

Memorial contributions in honor of Jere may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the Muscular Dystrophy Association