Gerald "Jerry" Richard Kissman

Gerald "Jerry" Richard Kissman

Age 78, passed away peacefully and surrounded by loved ones on Sunday, October 22, 2023. He was born on August 30, 1945, in Michigan City, IN, the youngest of seven children, to Edward and Bertha (Markwart) Kissman. Jerry's journey began in New Buffalo where he graduated with the Class of 1963 and proudly contributed to the 1963 Michigan High School State Championship Basketball team. He continued to pursue his passion for basketball at the University of Wisconsin-Stout, earning All-American honors and a spot in their Hall of Fame. He graduated with a Bachelor of Education.

Throughout his career, Jerry's impact was felt by many. As an educator, he taught at Lakeshore High School in Stevensville, MI, and West Ottawa High School in Holland, MI, before joining Eaton Rapids High School in the early 1980s. For nearly two decades, he dedicated his talents to the students of Eaton Rapids, teaching everything from drafting to driver education to wood shop. He also coached various sports including golf, basketball, and football. In addition to his teaching career, Jerry owned and operated Kissman Construction, a testament to his unwavering work ethic and passion for building. During his career, he either built or improved homes for over 100 local families and countless members of his own family.

Jerry enjoyed spending his winters in Fort Myers, Florida. However, his greatest joy was found in the company of his family. Jerry cherished every moment he spent with them and took immense pride in watching his beloved grandchildren grow and excel in their various endeavors. He would often be found at their sporting events and performances where he could show them how proud he was of them.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Bertha Kissman, and his siblings, Gordon Kissman, Marion Quantrell, Ruth Dole, and Florence Montealegre. He is survived by his three loving sons, Tim (Amy) Kissman, Mike (Pam) Kissman, and Jay (Jamie) Kissman. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Autumn, Sage, Ella, Luke, Lucy, and Evelyn, as well as his brother, Alvin (Nadra) Kissman, sister, Janet Hauch, sister-in-law Marlene Kissman, and his longtime partner, Mary Trosko, as well many special cousins, nieces, and nephews.

There will be a memorial service to celebrate Jerry's life from 2 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, November 4, at Skip's Restaurant at 16710 Lakeshore Dr, New Buffalo, MI 49117. If you plan to attend this celebration, please let Jerry's niece, Katha Kissman, know at kkissman@hotmail.com or (202) 669-4423. There will also be a gathering of friends and family from 2 to 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 3, at Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids (315 S River St.). Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society in his memory. To share memories or leave online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com (http://www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com).