Gerald R. ‘Jerry’ Kongabel
MARQUETTE, MI – Gerald R. “Jerry” Kongabel, affectionately known as “Boppy”, 89, of Marquette, entered Heaven on Friday, November 10, 2023 from Norlite Nursing Center, surrounded by family and under the care of Norlite staff and Lake Superior Hospice. He had resided at Snowberry Heights for 17 years prior to going to Norlite.
Jerry was born on February 20, 1934, in Oak Park, IL, to George and Lavanda Kongabel. He attended Purdue University. He served in the US Army from 1951 until his honorable discharge in 1955.
Jerry was married to Virginia Parker from 1958 until 1971.
Jerry’s top priority was to spread the love of God. He was a follower of Jesus, first and foremost. He cherished his family. He never missed a birthday, and was generous with his gifts, even though he had little. He thoroughly enjoyed watching his local grandsons play baseball, and was always sure to have a pocket full of candy to share at each game. He was faithful, patient and kind. He had an endless supply of bad-dad jokes, and loved to make people laugh. He had a perpetual attitude of gratitude. He was always willing to help anyone at any time, and ended every interaction with, “God bless you!” His legacy was love.
He is survived by his daughter, Debbie Mansfield of Greensboro, NC, son, Greg (Cindy) Kongabel of Marine City, son, Guy Kongabel of Waverly, NY, daughter, Julie Armstrong of Marysville, and daughter, Cindy (Ryan) Smith of Marquette; grandchildren, Jennifer Cossio, Shelby and Carley Mansfield, Sarah Steadman, Christine Kongabel, Jim and Frank Armstong, Parker, Trent and Jonah Smith; great-grandchildren, Brandon Frist, Tori and Christian Treadwell, Hopelyn, Oliver and Elliot Kroh, Shae, Josephine and Nora Armstrong, and expected great-grand daughter, Annie Steadman; great-great granddaughter, Callie Frist; and his sister, Jeanne Oswald. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Jim Kongabel, sister Joyce Graetz, and grandbabies Gregory, Luke and Grace.
Memorials can be made to wishes of the family, and will be divided between charities that Jerry held dear.
Private services are planned.
Canale-Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services are assisting Jerry’s family where memories and condolences may be shared at canalefuneral.com.