Ronald Vernon Vern Gerard of Kentwood went peacefully to be with his Lord and Savior February 25 2012 surrounded by his family. He was born in Hart Michigan to John and Doris (Gray) Gerard on October 7 1931 who preceded him in death. Siblings to Vern are Allen (Juanita) Gerard of Indiana Dr. Donald (Donna) Gerard Joyce (Harvey) Breen and Ann VanderKuyl of Utah. Vern a second generation professional baker was a partner in the Princess Bake Shop bakeries which at its peak operated multiple locations in the Grand Rapids area. He served his country in the Air Force during the Korean War. In 1956 he married Charlene Dawn Rillema and celebrated 56 years of marriage this past January. He will be greatly missed by their four children Janice Gerard Jonathan (Sandra) Gerard Nikki (David) Jankowski and Geoff Gerard. He is also survived by seven grandchildren Amanda (Lance) Davis Samantha Snyder Christopher Hunt Amber Gerard Cory Gerard Peyton Jankowski Dawson Jankowski and three great grandchildren Austin Snyder Blake Snyder and Alia Davis; and son-in-law Michael Hunt. Funeral service will be held at Roth-Gerst Chapel 305 N. Hudson Lowell. Pastor Mack Strange of South United Methodist Church of Kentwood officiating. Visitation 2-4:00 and 6-8:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the family for funeral expenses.
