Our family unexpectedly lost our dear husband, father, brother, Papa, and Uncle - Gerald "Jerry" DeMann on April 26, 2021.

The loss of Jerry leaves a gigantic hole in our lives and hearts. He was a friend to many. He gave us strength, compassion, and kindness. He was easy to talk to and would have you rolling in laughter at his many stories. He brought out the best in everyone.

Jerry was born in Detroit January 29, 1954, the family then moved to New York, returning to Michigan in 1969. He graduated from Troy High School in 1972 and attended Oakland Community College. He then moved to Elk Rapids in 1978 and in October of 1981 he married the love of his life Robin DeMann (Gotts).

He proudly served in the Army Reserve and then in the Coast Guard Reserve for a combined military career of more than 26 years. He retired from military service in 2008 as a Chief Port Security Specialist.

Jerry spent 18 years at the Grand Traverse Resort and then moved on to the equipment rental industry. For the past 10 years he has enjoyed working with many good friends and customers at MacAllister Rentals in Traverse City.

He loved music and played the guitar and the piano. Jerry also loved art and illustration and left us with many water color paintings and pen and ink drawings. His talents have been passed on to his children and grandchildren.

Jerry was a founding member of New Hope Community Church. His own relationship with the Lord brought many others to a personal relationship with Jesus. We know that he is with his Savior now and we will see him again. Heaven has gained an amazing soul.

He is survived by: his wife Robin; his son, Jeremy DeMann; his daughter, Chelsie Toteff (DeMann) and her husband Chad Toteff; his grandchildren, Jake DeMann, Trace Toteff, and Isla Toteff; his mother, Dolly DeMann; his sister, Sherri Puente and her husband German Puente; his father-in-law, Richard Gotts; brother-in-law, Rick Gotts; sister-in-law, Holly Winter (Gotts) and her husband Larry Winter; his nephews, Michael Thompson and Nick Thompson; his niece, Ashley Thompson; his aunt, Jan Murrie; his cousins, Jeff Murrie, Cindy Twork, Grant and Ava Lorenz and their children.

We will celebrate his life at New Hope Community Church, in Williamsburg, on Wednesday, May 12, 2021. Family will receive friends from 11:30 AM until the time of service at 12:30 PM.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Covell-Elk Rapids Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com