Kenneth "Ken" Edward Geer, 66, of Traverse City, entered eternal life on Saturday, September 6, 2025.
Ken was born on February 4, 1959, in Traverse City, Michigan, to the late Ronald and Marguerite Geer. From an early age, he was shaped by a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for life's simple joys. A proud graduate of Traverse City High School, class of 1977, he began his career in Alpena before returning home to work at Sara Lee, where he remained until 1998. During those years, he met Carrie Lynn Lautner, with whom he lovingly raised three incredible children: Michelle, Jamie, and Casey.
Ken was a devoted Detroit Lions fan, faithful through every season's heartbreak and hard-fought triumph, never missing a chance to cheer on his team. Yet beyond the roar of the stadium, his heart found peace in quieter places—the rich soil of his garden beneath his hands, the gentle fragrance of blooming roses, or the sun dipping low over the Platte River. Still, nothing brought him greater joy than sharing a morning doughnut with a loved one, laughter spilling across an afternoon, or stories told again and again. These moments of togetherness lit his heart brightest.
Ken is survived by his children, Michelle (Tim) Laylin-Merenda, Jamie Geer (Scott Spencer), and Casey Geer; and by his beloved grandchildren, Greyson Spencer, Lena Laylin, and Eleanora Merenda. He is also survived by his siblings, Susan (Don) Geer-Kinney-Schmuckal and Richard (Tracey) Geer, along with many extended family members and friends who were very dear to him. Ken was welcomed into eternal rest by his parents, his brother Steven Geer, and his brother-in-law Larry Kinney.
Ken's final Irish wink and exit has come. A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. In his words: skip the flowers, bring your laughter, and let it echo all the way to his new favorite seat in the house.
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you… Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." – John 14:27