Gerald Edward "Jerry" Wahr

Gerald Edward “Jerry” Wahr, age 85, passed away on March 10, 2026, at his cottage in Cadillac, Michigan, surrounded by loved ones holding his hands. Born on October 2, 1940, in Muskegon, Michigan, to Edward and Vivian (Lang) Wahr, Jerry lived a life marked by hard work, deep convictions, and quiet devotion to family and faith.

A proud graduate of Muskegon Catholic Central, Jerry served in the U.S. Army before continuing his education at Muskegon Community College and Aquinas College. He worked in supervision at CWC, Kaydon Corp., and Muskegon Paper Box, and retired after 25 years as Plant Manager at SAF-Holland Neway. In his younger years he enjoyed hunting and fishing, but later found his greatest pleasure watching his children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews compete in sports. A lifelong, unwavering Detroit Lions fan, he also remained a steadfast supporter of Muskegon Catholic Central and Michigan State University athletics.

Jerry was known for his love of spirited debate and his refusal to back down from a challenge. On April 28, 1979, he married Mary C. Shafer Sanregret, who survives him along with their children, Brent (Jaclyn) Wahr, Troy (Crystal) Wahr, and Michelle Engels; four grandchildren, Evan (Meghan) Wahr, Jesse (Andy) Hix, Justin (Ariel) Wahr, and Dylan Engels; three great-grandchildren; his brother, Leonard (Janet) Wahr; sister-in-law, Bonnie Wahr; and his in-laws, Cindy (John) McCarthy-Sinclair, Janet (David) Boone, and Dr. Greg (Bernie) Shafer. He also leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Jim Wahr and Ron (Marge) Wahr; sisters Sandy Boutell and Pat (Roger) Johnson; and sister-in-law Jackie Leppert.