Gerald "Jerry" J. Rifenbark

Gerald J. Rifenbark, 80, of Interlochen, MI, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2022, surrounded by his family. Jerry (Jigger as many of his friends called him) was born on June 16, 1942, to James & Florence (Bellor) Rifenbark. Jerry proudly served his country by enrolling in the Army Reserves in his junior year of high school. After graduating, he enlisted in the US Navy on November 1, 1961, and was honorably discharged on August 30, 1969. While in the service, he was a well-respected cook. He married his beloved Joan (Atkinson) in a beautiful outdoor wedding ceremony in Traverse City on September 23, 1971. Shortly after their marriage they moved to Barton City, Michigan where they raised their three children together. Jerry’s professional work career included a variety of positions. One of his favorite jobs he would fondly share memories of with his kids was that of a ballroom dance instructor. He loved dancing and he and Joan would turn many heads when they danced their favorite polka or waltz together at the Maple City and Cedar polka dances. He also worked for Consumers Power and was the Foreman / plant supervisor of a small pallet shop in Barton City. Jerry later decided to put his apron back on and return to the kitchen when he became a Merchant Marine and spent twenty plus years as a cook on the Great Lakes freighters. He was a respected cook and baker on several ships/tugs. Jerry retired in 2007, where he and Joan enjoyed a relaxing lifestyle in their home in Interlochen, MI. They always enjoyed the visits from their children/grandchildren throughout the years. There was rarely a time where you wouldn’t find them entertaining their family (playing euchre) and sharing in quality family time. Jerry loved “playing” and watching baseball throughout his life. He later became the biggest supporter of his grandkid’s sporting events. In 2019, Jerry’s life forever changed when he lost his life partner, Joan. He has been awaiting their reunion and would remind their children regularly how much he longed to be with her again. Jerry is survived by his four children, Sarah (Dan) Valbak of Ashburn, VA, Angela (Tom) Brown of Bear Lake, MI, Jerry (Amanda) Rifenbark of Bolingbrook, IL and Kimberly Campbell of Colorado. He has eight grandchildren, two great grandchildren and a number of nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his two sisters, Kay (Tom) Moran, Dorothy Rifenbark, and his brother Marty (Crystal) Rifenbark. Jerry is proceeded in death by his parent’s James & Florence Rifenbark, son, James (Jimbo) Rifenbark, and his sisters, Joyce (Ken) Pacholka and Gloria, aka Cora (Leonard) Moran. Our Family sends a heartfelt thank you to all of Jerry’s caretakers, we've gained a deep appreciation for the staff at French Manor South, Hospice of Michigan and his doctors throughout the years. We are grateful for your giving hearts. A special thank you to his daughter, Angela for taking on the role of his personal nurse throughout this difficult time. A private ceremony and burial will take place as requested by Jerry. Memorial contribution can be made to Hospice of Michigan, 10850 E. Traverse Hwy, Ste. 1155, Traverse City, MI 49684; or online at: https://www.hom.org/donations/memorials/

Gerald "Jerry" J. Rifenbark

June 16, 1942 - September 13, 2022