Gerard J. “Jerry” Migda

Jerry was born on June 2, 1957, in Detroit, MI to his parents Walter and Angeline Migda.

Jerry graduated from Detroit Catholic Central in 1975 and attended Central Michigan University. He graduated in 1980 with his Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, and in 1987 obtained his Master’s Degree in Guidance and Counseling. While in college, he met the love of his life, Carol Parfitt, and they were married in January of 1981. In 1982, they moved to the Upper Peninsula and, other than a short time in Virginia, have called it home ever since.

Even though he left Detroit, the Spirit of Detroit never left him. Jerry’s upbringing in the Motor City instilled in him the toughness, loyalty, work-ethic, and faith that defined him. He was also a lifelong fan of the Lions, Tigers, Red Wings, and Pistons, cheering them on whether they were doing well (rare) or poorly (slightly less rare). Jerry was quite the athlete in his own right. He played Varsity Football for the Catholic Central Shamrocks, a perennial gridiron powerhouse in Michigan High School football. And even though Jerry never suited up for the Red Wings, he did spend multiple seasons in the NHL (Negaunee Hockey League).

While he enjoyed sports, family was always the most important thing to Jerry. He was born into a strong, caring, and closely-knit family and everything he did was driven by the desire to create that same type of environment for his own family. In fact, he chose to move to the U.P. to have a safe and secure place to raise his children, whom he considered to be his most important life’s work. He loved spending time with and traveling with his family, whether it was a long road trip to Yellowstone or the annual trek down to the Cabin. When his children started getting married and having children of their own, Jerry felt the joy of seeing his life’s work come to fruition. Jerry was also an avid lover of dogs and considered them to a part of the family.

Nothing could keep Jerry from being there to support his family in their passions. If there was a concert, recital, game, or event, Jerry would be in the crowd, showing his support while beaming with pride. Holidays and birthdays were his favorite times of year, because they were chances to be with, and celebrate, those he loved. This passion for family extended into his professional life as well. In the early days of their marriage, Jerry and Carol were integral in the development and growth of Teaching Family Homes of Upper Michigan (where he spent over thirty years before retiring in 2013), and they were proud to be the first Boys Town-certified Family Teachers in the organization. Through his work with TFH, Jerry was able to have an impact on countless children and families throughout the Upper Peninsula. Jerry’s leadership at TFH was invaluable to the agency, and his co-workers at all levels recognized and valued his wisdom and gentle guidance.

Even though Jerry was a soft-spoken man, there was always a twinkle in his eye that lit up like a lamp when there was an opportunity to make someone laugh-befitting of someone who’s college friend group was affectionately called The Mofos. Whether it was dressing up as Ghostface while his children watched “Scream”, or serving as a faux-mafia don, Jerry enjoyed laughing and making people laugh.

Jerry was a, kind, generous, and loving husband, father, and friend. He is survived by his wife Carol Migda; his children, Annie (Jason) Erickson, Sara (Jason) Parks and Gabriel (Skye) Migda; his grandchildren, Lane Parks, Shane Parks, Zeke Erickson, Quinn Migda, Smith Erickson, Indie Migda and Angelo Migda; and his siblings Louise (Dick) Azzoli, Muriel (Ron) Rembelski, Susie (Darrel) Kirkwood, Buz (Kathy) Migda and Mark (Laura) Migda. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents Walter and Angeline Migda and several dear canine companions.

Jerry’s family will greet relatives and friends on Tuesday, July 2, 2024 starting at 10:30 a.m. at St. Louis the King Catholic Church in Harvey. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place in the church beginning at 12:30 p.m. with Rev. Ryan Ford officiating. A luncheon will immediately follow the Mass in the parish hall.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in Jerry’s memory to the Care Clinic of Marquette, 1213 N. Third Street, Marquette, MI 49855.

Canale Gwinn Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the Migda family where memories and condolences may be shared at canalefuneral.com.