Jerry Stow

Jerry Stow Sr., 82 of Elkhart, passed away on Saturday, July 8, 2017 at Sprenger of Mishawaka. He was born March 7, 1935 in Washington, Iowa to Fred A. and Leora (Morse) Stow. He married Sharon A. Williams on Oct. 2, 1954 in Elkhart. She survives along with 4 children, Jerry (Kathy) Stow Jr. of Elkhart, Julie (Terry) Smith of St. Lawrence, WI, Perry (Andrea) Stow of South Bend and Sherrie (Dave) Miller of Elkhart; 7 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren and a sister, Judy (Slug) Signorino of LaPorte. He was preceded in death by his parents and 2 brothers, Fred and Bob Stow.

Jerry graduated from Elkhart High School in 1954 where he was an accomplished athlete in the storied days of Elkhart High School in Track & Field and football in the 1950’s. After marrying his “Little Lady” and our incredible Mom, Sharon, they settled in Cleveland Township to raise their family. Jerry was a longtime volunteer fireman and tough but fair little league coach, instilling a great work ethic and strong morals in his young athletes. His was always a soft but well-reasoned voice in community activities.

Jerry had a distinguished career in Tool & Die at NIBCO and C.T.S. Corporation, retiring in 1994. Even now, in these days of 3D printing and computerized manufacturing, his skills are much sought-after, and very scarce. Post retirement, he came into his own as a talented artist- expressing himself in his photographic pursuits, in his painting, and most of all, in his exquisite wood carvings of ducks and shore birds.

Jerry had a lifelong appreciation of all animals. He gave his unconditional love (and got it back in return) to many fantastic dogs, the last one being Murphy, his beloved Chocolate Lab he spoke much of in his final days.

Jerry was a kind and gentle man, whose soul will live on in those he touched in his life, those he brought into this world, and all who wish and work for just a peaceful world.

A celebration of Jerry’s life will be from 1 to 5 pm Saturday Aug. 12 at Zimmy’s in Union , MI.