Gerald "Jerry" Joseph Wozniak, 97, of Traverse City and formerly of Alpena and Posen passed away Saturday, August 24, 2024 at Boardman Lake Glens.

Jerry was born on February 28, 1927 in Posen, MI to the late Joseph John and Agnes (MacFalda) Wozniak. He married the love of his life Loretta "Sammy" Rita Schloss on October 16, 1948 also in Posen, MI. Together they lovingly raised four wonderful children.

Jerry dedicated over 30 years to his career as an engineer with the State of Michigan. After retiring, he found great joy in golfing, deer hunting, taking care of his yard and working on stained glass artwork—a craft in which he was exceptionally talented. He generously shared his beautiful creations with family, friends, and his church.

In his younger years, Jerry was deeply involved with St. John's Parish in Alpena, Michigan, and was an active member of the Lions Club, even serving as King Lion. After relocating to Traverse City, he joined St. Patrick's Catholic Church, where he cherished his church community.

Jerry was a good man and was dearly loved by his family. He always had a pack of chewing gum to hand to his grandchildren and a $5 bill to give to his great grandchildren. He will be missed everyday by all those who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his children, Kathy (Robert) Jacques, Chris (Julie) Wozniak, Connie (Peter) Bruski, Carl (Debra Morley) Wozniak, 9 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, his sister, Rosemary Putnam and many other loving family members and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Sammy, and 10 brothers and sisters.

The family would like to express fond thanks to Boardman Lake Glens Brigadoon's manager, Becky and her extraordinary staff for their loving care of Jerry. Hospice nurse Mary went above and beyond to guide and support during the last few weeks of our dad's life.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Noon on Friday, September 6, 2024 at St. Patrick Catholic Church with a visitation held one hour prior. A luncheon will follow in the Parish Hall. Inurnment alongside his wife will take place in Alpena at Holy Cross Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to Hospice of Michigan or St. Patrick Catholic Parish Food Pantry. Kindly share thoughts and memories with his family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .