Frederick “Jerry” Ratelle, age 80, of Hale, MI passed away on Tuesday, June 6, 2023 with his daughter at his side, under the care of McLaren Hospice in Bay City, MI. Jerry was born on December 29, 1942 in Marquette, MI to the late Frederick N. and Elaine M. (Farrell) Ratelle. He was a 1960 graduate of Bishop Baraga High School and a member of St. Peter’s Cathedral, where he was an alter server for many years. After high school, he worked for the Coca Cola Company in Marquette and then moved to the Detroit area, where he worked for Great Lakes Steel as a welder for 38 years. Jerry retired to Hale, MI and was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles #4217 and a Shriner.
He enjoyed the friendships he made during this time and giving back to the community by participating in many fundraising events. Jerry was a true outdoorsman. He loved nature and every activity associated with it. Jerry especially loved his trips back to the U.P. to visit. He was never without a story of his many adventures and he truly cherished his time with his family and friends.
Jerry is survived by his children, Cheryl Lynn Ratelle, Michael Gerald (Sara) Ratelle and Stephen Gerald (Deborah) Ratelle; grandchildren, Derek Michael, Anthony Gerald Montini, Jennifer Ann (Andrew) Guinn, Rebekah Lynn (Jason) Salo, Jacob Nolan Ratelle and Rylan Patrick Ratelle; 7 great-grandchildren and sisters, Carol E. Hill and Grace R. (Bob) Smith. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 22 years, Marian and 2 brothers, Wayne and Lanny.
The family will honor Jerry’s request to be brought home to Marquette, MI, where he will be laid to rest next to his mother at Holy Cross Cemetery. Jerry will be missed by all those who knew and loved him. You may offer your condolences to the family online at www.bureshfuneralhomes.com.
