Jerry John Osak
June 5, 1954 - January 16, 2023
Jerry John Osak, age 68, of Deerfield, MI, passed away peacefully, with his family by his side, in Ann Arbor on Monday, January 16, 2023, following a short illness.
Jerry was born in Bad Axe, MI on June 5, 1954 to Walter and Lottie Osak. He grew up in Ubly, Michigan and graduated from Ubly High School in 1972. On a day in 1970, Jerry will tell you that spotted a beautiful girl walking across the street and thought, “I’m going to marry that girl”. He did just that on August 24, 1974 and that was the start of a 48 year marriage to Sharon Messing. Jerry and Sharon went on to have two daughters, Stacey and Megan, and two grandchildren, Tenlee and Wesley.
Following some time at Saint Clair County Community College, Jerry entered the world of forging where he began his 40 year career, excelling in management. Jerry demonstrated a love to teach, support, and encourage people. His strong work ethic and desire to help others was admired by his employees and those who knew him. Following retirement at age 62, Jerry enjoyed working part-time at Cabela’s in the camping department. During this time, Jerry expanded his love for the outdoors and found his most recent hobby, smoking meats, which his family has enjoyed!
Over the years, Jerry enjoyed bowling leagues and softball teams with friends, loved working on DIY projects, riding his Harley Davidson, watching Michigan football and the Lions (when they were winning), woodworking projects, listening to music (Rock and Roll being his favorite), fishing, camping and traveling—especially to the national parks. He loved spending time with their cats, with Sabrina and Annie holding extra special places in his heart.
Jerry was preceded by his father, Walter Osak; his mother, Lottie Osak; and his sister, Charlotte Dekoski. Left to cherish his memory and carry on his legacy are his wife, Sharon Osak of Deerfield, MI; his daughters, Stacey (Ryan) Meeks of Delaware, OH, and Megan Osak of Petersburg, MI; his grandchildren, Tenlee Meeks and Wesley Jacobs; many beloved extended family members; and cherished furry felines, Annie and Katie.
A Memorial Service to celebrate Jerry’s life will be held on Saturday, January 21, 2023, at Capaul Funeral Home in Ida, MI. Family and friends may visit beginning at 12:00pm with a service beginning at 3:00pm. Memorials may be made to the Lenawee County Humane Society.