Bockheim, Jerome Carl, “Romie”, “Jerry”, age 89 of Grand Rapids, entered into eternal life on Saturday, May 30, 2015. He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Dorothy; sons, William and Lawrence; parents, Carl and Catherine; brothers, Bernard (Nancy), Thomas (Marilyn), Edward, Carl, Melvin and Louis. He is survived by his daughter, Eileen Bockheim; daughter-in-law, Carol (Craig) Rothley; grandchildren, Bill (Jeni) Bockheim, Marjorie Flores, Jim (Catherine) Bockheim, Jenny (Adam) Druckenmiller, Jennica (Jim) Harris, Jonathon Rothley, Brian Bockheim, Anna Bockheim; 14 great grandchildren; sisters, Sr. Carletta Bockheim O.P., Sr. Lillian Bockheim O.P.; sisters-in-law, Diane, Judy, Marge Bockheim. Jerome attended St. Alphonsus School, St. Joseph Redemptorist Seminary, GR Catholic Central (Class of ’44), University of Notre Dame and Central Michigan University. He worked as a Senior Project Manager for over 43 years for Owen-Ames & Kimball Company. Jerry was an exceptional athlete in his early years, highlighted by his football career at the University of Notre Dame. Go Irish! Jerry was a man of extraordinary faith who will lovingly be remembered for his infectious smile and cheery kindness to all. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 am on June 6, 2015 at Saint Thomas the Apostle, 1449 Wilcox Park Dr. S.E., Grand Rapids. Rev. James A. Chelich presiding. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery. Visitation one hour prior to the Mass at the church. In lieu of flowers, Jerome requested memorial contributions to be made to The Dominican Sisters, Chimbote Peru Mission, 2025 Fulton Street East, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.
