Jerry Lee Lardie

Jerry Lee Lardie of Traverse City passed away on Saturday January 21, 2017.

Jerry was born November 26, 1938 to Delano and Rita (Hunter) Lardie. He was a resident of Traverse City for his entire life. He met the love of his life Beverly (Neihardt) 63 years ago, leading to a marriage that lasted 59 years. They have lived in their home in Slabtown for the past 57 years.

Jerry was a salesman for decades, supporting the needs of mom and pop grocery stores across all of northern Lower Michigan. He resisted corporate promotions and sales goals to ensure the product needs of his friends and customers were served with integrity. Respect for the individual came naturally to him and was a key to his professional success.

Jerry was known for his generosity of spirit, heart and labor. If you needed a barn built or a water heater replaced he was the first man on the job and the last man to leave. His quick wit, captivating smile and good nature made any task feel like an expression of joyfulness. Upon meeting Jerry it felt like you knew him and had become friends.

Jerry's house was often the gathering place for a celebration of friendship. As a father and husband he guided by example, providing wise judgement or an empathetic ear with unconditional love. He was quick to laugh and slow to anger. He will be missed and remembered fondly by those whose lives he touched.

Jerry is survived by his wife Beverly (Neihardt) Lardie; sons Theodore (Cynthia) Lardie, Michael (Susan Thompson) Lardie, James (Merry Gallagher) Lardie; sister Suzanne (Josef) Soper; grandchildren Emerson Lardie, Jonas Lardie and Maxwell Lardie; and Brother-in-law Jonas (Joanne) Neihardt.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents Delano and Rita (Hunter) Lardie; brother Fritz Lardie. and sister-in-law Cynthia (Jim) Hart.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 27, 2017 at 3 p.m. at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, with visitation beginning at 2 p.m. Tim Kellogg will officiate services.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing an expression of sympathy may direct contributions to the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, 3860 North Long Lake Road, Suite D, Traverse City, MI 49684.