Jerry Dale Hodges, 91, passed away peacefully at his home in Stuart, Florida on July 19, 2022.
He was born and grew up in Lansing, Michigan, graduating Eastern High School in 1949. He proudly served in the US Coast Guard for three years during the Korean War and regaled his children and grandchildren with his experiences onboard and off.
He married Jeanine Haan in 1968, at which time he began working at Michigan State University. He enjoyed his work in the chemistry department, checking out chemicals for the professors and students to use in their experiments and studies. Even without formal training, he studied and excelled at his job.
In 1976, he and his wife Jeanine left Lansing to start a new life in Martin County, Florida. After managing the old Palms Motel for a year, they built a lock and distribution business called Keymart, which they later sold.
They lived in Hobe Sound 23 years and then moved to Miles Grant in Stuart for the remainder of his life.
In Michigan, Jerry enjoyed fishing and camping, a love of which he left with his children. In Florida he picked up golf and played extensively as a member at the Miles Grant Country Club and the Martin County Golf Course (Sailfish Sands). He was an avid reader, especially of western and mystery novels and the local newspaper.
Jerry is survived by his wife of 54 years, Jeanine Hodges, his daughter Kelli (Hodges) Marcum Ausem, of Stuart, his son, Rick A. Haan and his wife Linda, of Palm City, and a daughter Terri (Haan) Hidecker and her husband Doug, of Leroy, Michigan; his seven grandchildren Stephanie Devoe, Samantha Lorusso, Justin Haan, Aaron Haan, Michelle Haan Zelen, Kim Hodges, Jr., and Kendra Wieger; and nine great grandchildren.
He is predeceased by his mother, Elois Hoyt, and his son, Kim Hodges.
Services will be held privately. Donations to honor Jerry's life can be made to Treasure Coast Hospice of Stuart.