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CHOCOLAY TWP, MI – Gerald "Gerry" John Mackey, age 89, of Chocolay Township, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at UP Health System-Marquette.
Gerry was born in Ishpeming on February 19, 1937, the son of John and Catherine (Penhale) Mackey. He was raised in Ishpeming and attended Ishpeming High School. In 1961, Gerry married the love of his life, Sandra Hill, and together they began their life in Harvey. They shared 40 years of marriage until Sandra's passing in 2001.
Gerry dedicated more than 46 years of his working life to Northern Michigan University, where he worked in the Maintenance Department. He retired at the age of 75, having spent many years taking pride in his work and doing things the right way.
A quiet and private man, Gerry was known for being stubborn, old school, and wonderfully simple in his way of life. He was a true Upper Peninsula man at heart. He loved his dogs, John Deere tractors, westerns, the Green Bay Packers, and, of course, a good cup of coffee. He enjoyed spending time outside, mowing the grass, and pushing snow with his plow. He didn't need much to be content and was happiest living life on his own terms.
Gerry is survived by his children, Gerald Mackey of Bakersville North Carolina and Michelle Mackey of Naples, Florida; grandchildren, Heather (Jake) Meyer, John Mackey, Jacob Mackey, and Nichole Mackey; and great-grandchildren, Bella, Karlee, Konnor, Evelyn, Rilee, Asher, and Camden.
In addition to his parents, Gerry was preceded in death by his wife, Sandra, and his son, Daniel Mackey, as well as numerous siblings.
Visitation for Gerry will be held on Wednesday, September 2, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Canale-Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services. A sharing of memories will take place at 12:00 p.m. A reception will be served during the visitation. Burial will follow at Park Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Gerry's memory to UPAWS, 815 South M-553, Gwinn, MI 49841.
Canale-Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services is serving the family. Condolences may be expressed online at canalefuneral.com.