Jerry Lee Monroe (also known as "Monroe"), 74, from Hubbard Lake, MI, passed away Jun 1, 2011 quietly at his home surrounded by his wife and family. Jerry was born Jul 2, 1936 in Genesee, MI.
Following graduation from Kalkaska High School in 1955, he enlisted in the US Army an served in the Special Forces as a green Beret Sergeant; something he was very proud to be a part of. Following his military career, Jerry returned to Michigan where he worked as an operating engineer in Local 324, owned Sands Resort and the Hubbard Lake Tavern, and retired to Punta Gorda, FL.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Audray Oliver (Paul) and Westall Monroe. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Candy Monroe (Hill); his cat Bantu; two sisters, Jan Wood (Ron) of Elk Rapids, MI, and Pauline Salenski of Kalkaska, MI; brother, Chuck Sanders (Patricia) of Box Elder, SD; son and three daughters, Lance Monroe (Terry) of Ann Arbor, MI, Vicky Kolanowski (Mike) of Sterling Heights, MI, Wendy Beebe (Bret) of Granbury, TX, and Carla Rios (Josh) of Holt, MI.
He was very proud to have 11 wonderful grandchildren: Tim Kolanowski (Mary), Kim Kolanowski, Jonathan Kolanowski, Alyssa Kolanowski, Mikey Kolanowski, Brittany Beebe, Tommy Beebe, Victoria Gonzalez, Joshua Rios, Andon Rios, and Raiya Rios, Jerry will also be forever remembered by his numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and dear friends.
Jerry was a great man; he was caring, giving, loving husband and father and will fondly and forever be remembered. Jerry loved boating, cooking, entertaining, and was a member of the VFW, American Legion, and Eagles.
There will be a private military service with full military honors this summer. It was his wish to be cremated. Committal of ashes will be at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, MI.
