Gerald (Jerry) A. Krajenke, 83, of Traverse City, died peacefully Friday, May 20, 2022 with children at his side.

Jerry was born on January 23, 1939, to Edward and Helen Dorothy (Shultz) Krajenke in Detroit, Michigan. He joined the Air Force February 9,1956 to proudly serve his country.

He was a talented carpenter and worked for Shanty Creek taking care of maintenance and building custom pieces needed throughout their facility for many years. Jerry also had his own business providing remodel and repair for homeowners in the area. He shared his talent with his children allowing them to learn the trade.

He enjoyed  golfing, fishing, hunting, camping with family and friends.   He was a talented artist, drawing and spending time in his workshop crafting items from wood and helping anyone in need.  Jerry also coached the local boy's baseball team, creating fun and memorable experiences for his players.

He married his beautiful wife Shirley of 48 years in White Lake, Michigan. They loved to spend time together with their siblings and family, attending small town festivals, listening to country music, and taking the family camping and picnicking throughout upper and lower Michigan and attending their grandchildren's sporting and school events.

He is survived by daughters Sherry Steffen; Geraldine (Richard, Jr.) Cebula; Roxanne (Frank) Sarasin; sons Erick (Bonnie) Dahl II, and Ron (Gail) Dahl; 18 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren (which includes 4 sets of twins); 2 great-great grandchildren; sister Donnell (Tom) Lowry; nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.

Jerry was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley, his father, Edward; mother, Helen; two brothers Jimmy and Eddie; two granddaughters, Shannon and Nicole Dahl.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, May 24, 2022, at 11 AM from Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Covell-Traverse City Chapel.  Interment will follow at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens.

The family will receive friends Monday, May 23, 2022, from 6-8 PM at the funeral home.

Memorial Contributions may be directed to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Covell-Traverse City Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

www:beaconfh.com