Gerald Hendricks

Gerald “Jerry” Hendricks, age 93, of Jenison, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. 

Jerry was born in McBain, Michigan, to Peter and Thressa Hendricks in September (mom said 22, doctor said 23) 1932. As the oldest of three sons, he developed a strong work ethic while growing up on the family dairy farm. He later moved to Grand Rapids, where he began his career. 

In 1952, Jerry enlisted in the United States Air Force and faithfully served his country until 1956. He met the love of his life, Jean (Cronkright), on a blind date, and the two were united in marriage on October 24, 1958. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and love.

Jerry enjoyed hunting, bowling, and golfing, but he especially loved fishing. He spent many hours on Lake Erie catching walleye with his dear friend, Don Tietsma, and also enjoyed deep-sea fishing in Florida with his daughter, Sue. Jerry also taught his four children and almost all of his grandchildren how to fish.

A man of deep faith, Jerry faithfully read Scripture with his family after evening meals and made it a priority to bring his family to church each Sunday. He prayed regularly for his children and grandchildren, leaving a lasting spiritual legacy.

He used his accounting background to faithfully keep the books for Fair Haven Church for 25 years.

Jerry and Jean shared a love for travel and enjoyed many special trips together. In retirement, they split their time between their cottage on Ryerson Lake in Fremont, Michigan, and their condo in Bradenton, Florida.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his infant twin sisters, and infant grandson. He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Jean; brothers, Al and Myrna Hendricks, Ken and Gen Hendricks; four children, Dave and Miriam Hendricks, Julie and Alan Rycenga, Sue and Mark Pedley, and Tom Hendricks. He was blessed with 12 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. 

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 11, at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Jamestown) 2371 Riley St., Hudsonville, with Pastor Jim Zinger officiating. The burial will take place at Floral View Memorial Gardens. Relatives and friends may visit with the family on Saturday from 10-11 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to CorsoCare Hospice.