Sept. 19, 1935-July 2, 2024

 

Gerald “Jerry” Preston, 88, of Dowagiac, passed away on Tuesday afternoon, July 2, 2024, at Corewell Health Lakeland Hospital in St. Joseph, MI. Jerry was born on Sept.19, 1935, in Eau Claire, MI, to Marion and Mildred (Gassman) Preston.

He was a veteran of the United States Air Force serving during the Vietnam Conflict. Jerry earned a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University. On June 18, 1960, he was united in marriage to Patricia A. Knapp. Jerry was a teacher who taught Industrial Arts for Edwardsburg Public Schools and Southwest Michigan College for many years. Jerry enjoyed working with his model trains and he and Pat loved square-dancing and round-dancing together. Surviving are his wife of 64 years — Pat Preston; son — Brian (Julie) Preston; twin-sister — Sue Knapp; sister — Joy (Ward) Kaler; four brothers — Jack (Barb) Preston, Milton (Judy) Preston, Gray (Linda) Preston and Peter (Linda) Preston; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were his parents; and sister — Jean Knapp.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, July 15, at Silver Creek United Methodist Church, 31994 Middle Crossing Rd, Dowagiac, with Pastor Sara Carlson officiating. Memorial contributions in Jerry’s name may be directed to Silver Creek UMC. Arrangements were entrusted to Clark Chapel and Cremation Services, Dowagiac. Please visit Jerry’s personalized webpage to share a memory or leave a condolence to his family at www.clarkch.com