Paul Terry Ankerson, 78, of Traverse City passed away peacefully in his home on Tuesday, May 26, 2015. Born on January 8, 1937 in Traverse City to the late Thomas and Nellie (Smith) Ankerson. Upon graduating from Traverse City Central High School, Paul enlisted in the United States Army serving his country in Germany. Paul married his high school sweetheart, Cyrilene Grover, on April 2, 1957 in Traverse City. Shortly after their marriage, Cyr joined Paul in Germany. After an honorable discharge from the Army, he spent 37 years working for Cone Drive Gears. Together they lived in their home on the Boardman River for 53 years raising their children. Paul was a gifted athlete enjoying golf, basketball, baseball and cheering on the Detroit Tigers, Lions, Red Wings, and the Michigan Wolverines. An outstanding outdoorsman, he taught many family members, friends, and neighbors how to hunt. Spending time with his family gave him the greatest joy, especially dominating the euchre table.

Paul Ankerson is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Cyrilene, his son, Jeffrey Ankerson, his daughters, Debra (Gary) Harrand, Joni Ankerson, Lori (Bruce) Eschenburg, nine loving grandchildren; Josh (Camron)Tompkins, Jacob (Stefanie)Tompkins, Melanie (Kevin) Earl, Dustin (Sara) Ankerson, Kelby Ankerson, Ashley Dilts, Chad (Brenna) Dilts, Paul Eschenburg, Holly Eschenburg, as well as six great-grandchildren; Sabra, Brady, Taylor, Kylee, Morgan, Logan, and baby Dilts on the way.

Also surviving is a sister Jean (Bud) Zenner, and a brother Jerry (Shirley) Ankerson, as well as many loving nieces and nephews. Paul was preceded in death by five brothers and three sisters; Merle Ankerson, Donald Ankerson, Kenneth Ankerson, Leo Ankerson, Arnold Ankerson, Arlene Horton, Bonnie Zenner and Maxine Balentine.

A memorial service honoring Paul will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, June 6, 2015 at the Church of the Living God, 1514 Birmley Road, Traverse City, MI, 49696, with visitation at 1:00 pm. Pastor Ted Smith will officiate. Military honors will be conducted under the auspices of Cherryland VFW Post 2780.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial donation to the Church of the Living God's Mission Outreach.

Please feel free to share your thoughts and memorials with Paul's family at www.reynolds-johnkoff.com . The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkoff Funeral Home and cremation services.