Jerome L. “Jerry” Kuhnlein Sr., 89, of St. Joseph passed away peacefully on Monday January 3, 2022 surrounded by his loving family. Arrangements are handled by Starks & Menchinger Chapel & Cremation Services.

A celebratory life memorial service will be held at a later date. Those who wish to leave condolences online can do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.

Jerry was born in Detroit, to Frank and Evelyn Kuhnlein.

He graduated in 1950 from the former St. Joseph Boys-Only High School in Detroit, where he played four varsity sports and was a star athlete. In his senior year, his football team traveled across the state and he put in an outstanding performance in one of the first games ever played at Dickinson Stadium in St. Joseph. Little did he know that almost 50 years later he would be making the same trip across the state to enjoy his retirement years in the same city.

In high school, Jerry proudly enlisted in the United States Navy Reserve, where he served for nine years.

In 1955, he married the love of his life, Mary, and the two would spend 66 wonderful years together before his death. Jerry often worked two or three jobs to complete his education and later to support his family. His main job has been to work in the trusts department of NBD Bank for over 40 years.

Jerry was an active member of Jaycee’s and Our Lady of Sorrows School Board. One accomplishment that meant a lot to him was being the second member of his family to receive the American Legion Award. Whenever baseball or football games were on TV, family members knew not to interrupt Jerry while he was cheering on his favorite teams. An avid golfer, bowler and card player who was quick with a joke and a laugh, Jerry touched the hearts of everyone who had the chance to meet him.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Mary; children: Debbie (Bill) Schorger, Dr Jerry (Colleen) Kuhnlein, Jeff (Jeannie) Kuhnlein, Greg (Theresa) Kuhnlein, Tim (Gail) Kuhnlein and Mary Ann (David) Doyle; 18 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and sisters-in-law Marie Kuhnlein Gilbert and Jackie Kilcline.

His parents died before him; and siblings: Mary Rutt, Dan Kuhnlein, Frank “Bud” Kuhnlein, Mary Lou Henze, Marilyn Lee and Pete Kilcline.

Instead of flowers or gifts, Jerry asked you to give a loved one a hug and tell them that you love them.