Obituary of Jerry Dale Meek
Jerry Dale Meek was born in Monroe, Michigan on June 17, 1948. He was the eldest of two sons born from the union of Harold Otto Meek and Elizabeth "Betty" Hazel (DeLisle) Meek. He was baptized at Trinity Lutheran Church attending the Christian day school there through the 6th grade. He then transferred to Jefferson Schools from where he graduated high school with the Class of 1967.
Jerry took a position with Conrail Railroad in 1968. His career spanned 40 years, 3 months, and 6 days, but as he said, “who’s counting”. Along the way he served in several capacities prior to becoming an Engineer working for Amtrak and Penn Central before his retirement in 2008 from Norfolk Southern.
Jerry was married to the love of his life, the former, Myrna Ruth Pickford by Pastor Raymond Malotky at Trinity Lutheran Church on July 23, 1976. Although Jerry was an excellent provider and a hard worker, he never allowed his career to get in the way of his commitment to family. The railroad was more than a career for Jerry. It was his passion. He loved travel and the family often reached their vacation destinations by train. He also collected model railroads having an impressive Lionel O gauge setup at the home.
An active member of Trinity Church, the couple regularly attended worship, and Jerry was a past member of church council and served as an usher. Being an Eagle Scout himself, Jerry, understood and treasured the opportunity to shape young minds through scouting. He and Myrna led the Trinity Cub Scout Pack 502 for many years. He also served alongside Myrna as she ran the “best” concession stands for Trinity basketball. He loved to watch his children and grandchildren play sports and had even been the assistant soccer coach for a very successful Trinity team coached by Rick Holtzen.
Jerry loved being outside whether tending to his garden or fifth-wheel camping. He was well-known for his great sense of humor, being a prankster, and the joy he received in laughing and making others laugh. He was a wonderful example of what it meant to be a man of faith.
Jerry Dale Meek, age 75, a of Monroe was called to his Heavenly home at 12:24pm on Monday; July 10, 2023, at ProMedica Toledo Hospital. His health had declined rapidly since being hospitalized on July 3. His passing was preceded by his father in 1965 and his mother in 2021. The family wishes to express their deepest appreciation to ProMedica Toledo Hospital, doctors and nurses, and to Pastor Mark Duerr for spending time with Jerry and his family to bring great comfort in his final hours.
To cherish his memory he leaves his beloved wife of nearly forty-seven years: Myrna Ruth Meek of Monroe; four sons: Brian (Heather) Meek of Holland, Steven Meek of Newport, Paul (Elke) Meek of Dexter, and James (Brenda) Meek of Berkley; a brother: Tom (Mary) Meek of Longview, Washington; seven grandchildren: Jessica, Tyler, Sydney, Hayden, Maggie, Alice, and Lucy; three step grandchildren: Kailey, Breanne, Meagan; three great-grandchildren: Joseph, Benjamin, and Amelia; several brothers and sisters-in-law and nieces and nephews.
Friends may gather from 4:00pm until 7:00pm on Friday; July 14, 2023, at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185. A Funeral Service Celebrating His Life will be held at 9:30am on Saturday; July 15, 2023, also at Merkle’s with Pastor Dennis Mann, Visitation Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church officiating. Procession will follow to Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle for burial.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Trinity Lutheran Church General Fund or Debt Elimination Fund. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.