Gerald Churchill

GERALD HUGH CHURCHILL

Kalamazoo, Mich.

Gerald Hugh Churchill, 83, of Kalamazoo, Mich., passed away June 22, 2017, in Kalamazoo.

He was born Oct. 2, 1933, in St. Paul, Minn., to Ann (Steinmetz) and Hugh Churchill. Jerry graduated from Marion High School in Marion, Iowa, in 1951 and pursued higher education at several colleges and universities in Iowa. After earning bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Iowa, he spent his work life teaching first at high schools in Traer and Burlington, Iowa, then at Kellogg Community College in Battle Creek, Mich.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his first wife, Diane Smelser.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Mary Faggan; children, Mark (Olga), Caroline, Matthew and Jonathan; two grandchildren; brother, Robert; five nieces and nephews; and a host of friends.

As a young man, Jerry was a gifted athlete, accomplished pianist and ardent fisherman. More than anything, he loved and was shaped by the green, rolling hills and fields of Iowa, and his affection for nature remained a constant throughout his life. His academic career was marked by collegiality and compassionate, gentle regard for his students.

He will be remembered as a loving son, husband, father and brother.

Engaged in a lifelong quest for meaning and truth, Jerry was a deep thinker, who shared the wisdom he gained from his explorations. He was a fine man; we shall not see his like again.

There will be no visitation or service. Private interment.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan.

Betzler Life Story Funeral Home

6080 Stadium Dr.

Kalamazoo, MI 49009

(269) 375-2900

www.BetzlerFuneralHome.com