Jerry Lee Young, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, formerly of Coral, Michigan, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2026 at his home. Born on September 29, 1935, Jerry lived a life marked by quiet service, steady devotion, and a deep desire to make a positive impact and enrich the lives of those around him.

Jerry graduated from Lakeview High School in 1953 and went on to attend Michigan State University. He became a dedicated teacher, sharing his knowledge and practical skills through Industrial Arts and Driver’s Education at Edmore High School and Lakeview Community Schools for 30 years. He carried a lifelong appreciation for learning, craftsmanship, and helping others find their way.

Jerry was married to his beloved wife, Natalie, for 64 years. Together, they built a life rooted in partnership, family, and hard work. Whether canning and freezing food, tending a large garden, playing with their children and grandchildren, running his small sawmill, or caring for their home, Jerry and Natalie worked together with love and purpose.

An avid woodworker and “notepad making extraordinaire,” Jerry had a gift for and the determination to find a way forward, no matter the challenge. He could always discover a solution, fix what needed fixing, and offer steady support when it was needed most. He also had a deep love of farming, working with his family’s farm, Sandyland Farms, and with close family friends at Main Farms. His skills with heavy equipment and practical problem-solving enabled him to help expand Birchwood Golf Course, as well as improve watershed at area farms. Jerry’s quiet generosity was evident in his commitment as a 25-gallon blood donor, selling tickets at high school football and basketball games and the many ways he served his community without seeking recognition.

Jerry was a faithful member of the United Church of Christ in Lakeview, where his values of service, humility, and care for others were demonstrated in the way he lived each day.

Jerry is survived by his children, Eric Young and Ellen (Butch) Markel; his grandchildren, Ethan and Mason Young, Alex and Morgan Young, Ryan (Frankie) Harrington, Noah Markel, and Emily (Devon) Cruson; and his great-grandchildren, Codey Markel and Hazel Cruson.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Natalie Young; son, Tony Young; parents, Richard and Margaret Young; and brother, Larry Young.

Jerry will be remembered for his steady presence, practical wisdom, strong work ethic, and the quiet ways he was always striving to make life better for his family, friends, students, church, and community.

Services will be held Saturday, September 19th at Lakeview United Church of Christ, Lakeview, MI. Visitation at 10:00 am followed by a service at 11:00 am. Those wishing to donate in Jerry’s memory are asked to consider his educational scholarship through Lakeview/Greenville Community Foundation or a charity of their choice.