Gerald "Jerry" Alex Becker, 67, passed away unexpectedly after complications from knee replacement surgery on Friday, November 1, 2024 with his family at his side.

Jerry was born on July 20, 1957, in Traverse City, MI, at Munson Medical Center to Clayton Alex Becker and Marion Jean Becker

At age 15, Jerry experienced a life-altering stroke that left him in a coma for ten days. Against all odds, he fought his way back, relearning to walk and talk with the unwavering support of his mother, his greatest cheerleader. Jerry never saw his challenges as limitations—his resilience and determination defined him, and he went on to live an independent, full life without ever missing a beat.

While still in high school, Jerry met Krista Jae Jamieson, and after she asked him for a ride home one day from school, they became inseparable. The two shared a bond that would last a lifetime. Jerry graduated from Traverse City Central High School in 1976, and soon after, he joined the maintenance team at Munson Medical Center, where he would proudly work for decades. Known for his strong work ethic, Jerry was deeply committed to his job and his colleagues. He retired with a wealth of unused vacation and sick days, a testament to his dedication and pride in maintaining the hospital grounds and ensuring a welcoming environment.

On September 6, 1980, Jerry and Krista married at Ogdensburg Methodist Church, beginning a 41-year journey together. Outside of work, Jerry cherished time spent outdoors. He loved fishing, hunting, spending time with his family, tending to his lawn, enjoying a good cup of coffee, and playing cards. Jerry also had a passion for travel, and one of his most memorable adventures was a deep-sea fishing trip in Panama.

Friends and family remember him as a kind, down-to-earth person with a big heart.

Jerry is survived by his beloved wife, Krista; his mother Marion Becker, his siblings, David (partner Bill) Becker, Barbara (James) Hutchison, and Kenneth (Betty) Becker; and his in-laws, Kelly (Christian) Larson and Jamie (Brian Burkholder) Jamieson along with many special nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father Clayton, his parents-in-law, Calvin and Verla Jamieson and his brothers-in-law Kim Jamieson, John Jamieson, and Karla Jamieson.

A visitation will be held for immediate family only at Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home, followed by a funeral procession to Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens, where Jerry will be laid to rest next to his dad.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one's choice.

Jerry will be missed by all who knew and loved him, and his spirit of resilience and kindness will remain in the hearts of those who believed in him throughout his life. Kindly share thoughts and memories with his family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .