In Memory
Jerry D. Paege
July 10, 1967 ~ July 28, 2024 (age 57)
Jerry Paege, age 57, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, July 28, 2024, at Corewell Health Lakeland Hospital, Niles. He was born July 10, 1967 in South Bend, Indiana to the late Harry George and Esther I. (Birk) Paege.
Jerry graduated from LaSalle High School, achieved an Associate in Arts from Lake Michigan College, a Bachelor of General Studies from Indiana University and US Coast Guard licensure to operate passenger vessels. Jerry then obtained his private pilot license, achieving a commercial rating allowing him to fly as a corporate pilot. Jerry was a certified multi-engine flight instructor and a previous member of Wings Flying Club, serving on the Board of Directors.
Jerry cherished the summers spent with his dad at their cottage on Pleasant Lake in Edwardsburg and stopping by after work to watch Iron Chef with his mother. Jerry’s many passions included playing guitar, watching classic movies and cruising in his 1970 Corvette, but his greatest joy was caring for and gaining the trust of wildlife God put in his path. Jerry was committed to his Christian faith and a member of the Huntly Baptist Church family.
Jerry is survived by his fiancée, Betsy Smith of Niles, MI, sister, Jackie Paege of South Bend, brother, Gary (Catherine) Paege of Denton, TX, two nieces, Cortney Paege of Rogers, AR and Kristen (Calvin Rushing) Paege of Dallas, TX, a grand nephew, Callen Rushing and Aunt Norma Williams of Plymouth, IN.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 6, at the Palmer Funeral Home – Hickey Chapel, 17131 Cleveland Road, South Bend, IN 46635. Friends may visit with the family one hour prior to services. Burial will take place at Southlawn Cemetery, South Bend.
Contributions in memory of Jerry D. Paege may be made to Pet Refuge, 4626 South Burnett Drive, South Bend, IN 46614. Online condolences may be sent through www.palmerfuneralhomes.com
07/31/2024 EJS
|