It is with a heavy heart that we announce the peaceful passing of Gerard “Jerry” Lee Hammerschmid Sr. , a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, on March 20, 2026, in Venice, Florida.
Born on July 31, 1934, in Detroit, MI, and spending the majority of his years in the close-knit community of Chelsea, MI, Jerry was known for his warm smile, kind spirit, and the joy he brought to those around him. He was deeply involved in both his church and community, generously sharing his charitable spirit through his work with St. Louis Center and the Knights of Columbus, where he served as Grand Knight and contributed as an active board member for many years.
Jerry was the pillar of his family, a devoted husband to his loving wife, Cindy, with whom he shared an enduring love story spanning 60 remarkable years since their marriage on June 12, 1965.
He was a guiding light to his children, Jerry Jr. (Lesli), Anton (Sarah), Peggy (Tim), and Alex (Christine), whose accomplishments and adventures were his greatest pride.
He leaves behind an infield of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; Chelsea (Konstantine), Claudia (Jack), Lee, Conner (Dani), Ander, Ansley, Resse, Ruhn, Cadence, Casey, Sammy, and Laken.
Jerry leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth, also held dear by his siblings and family. He was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings, his son, Todd, and his daughter-in-law who paved the way for him to join them in eternal rest.
Jerry’s zest for life was evident in his numerous interests and hobbies. The echoes of laughter from family gatherings where he played Euchre, Bocci, and Horseshoes will resonate with his loved ones forever. He thoroughly enjoyed the “Lake Life” captaining the Pontoon around with a drink in one hand and close friends and family nearby. He was a fierce competitor, loving all Detroit Sports Teams, and even in games, he taught the values of both sportsmanship and unity. Jerry’s grandchildren were the apple of his eye, and he never missed an opportunity to be present in their lives, cheering them on at every game, recital, and milestone.
As we bid farewell to Jerry Hammerschmidt Sr., we celebrate a life rich in love, laughter, and memories. He will forever be etched in the hearts of those he leaves behind, not just as a man who loved life, but as one who made life lovely for all who had the privilege of knowing him. Jerry’s legacy is a blueprint for a well-lived life, and he will be remembered with every ”loner” hand and with every family gathering that sparkles just a little less brightly in his absence.
Visitation will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., with Vigil Services at 7:00 p.m. The family will also receive friends at St. Mary Catholic Church on Friday, March 27, 2026 from 10:00-11:00 a.m.
Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday, March 27, 2026, 11:00 a.m., at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family would request any donations be made in Jerry’s name to the St. Louis Center, Chelsea.
Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.
