Obituaries

of Jackson, MI, formerly of Chelsea, age 97, passed away peacefully Friday, December 15, 2023, at Legacy Assisted Living in Jackson. He was born October 27, 1926, in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Homer W. & Ruth (Finton) Frisbie.

Jerry graduated from Plymouth High School in 1945. He then attended Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti. He worked as a manager at Wanty Shoes in Ann Arbor for about 30 years, retiring in 1988. He worked more recently at Pierce Lake Golf Course in Chelsea. He loved golfing with his best friend Sam all over Southeast Michigan. He was a member of the Chelsea Senior Citizens, and enjoyed their group trips across the country. Jerry and his wife of 74 years, Donna, especially loved traveling to his beloved “Up North.” He loved spending time with his five daughters, grandchildren, and many longtime friends. His hobby of painting watercolor pictures and notecards will now be cherished by all who received them. Jerry was also known for his quick puns, always ready with a joke for anyone and everyone. This made him popular at Legacy, endearing him to staff and residents alike.

Since he could not serve in WWII, he was very patriotic and insisted we all fly our U.S. flags on holidays. He had a love of flying and aircraft, and was well versed in all types of military aviation, having listened to the radio coverage, watching war movies, and reading about the war. He was thrilled to ride in a B-17 Bomber out of Willow Run Airport with daughter Barb and also watched his granddaughter Corrina fly with the Blue Angels (in civilian capacity).

An avid reader, he taught us that hobbies are good for the soul, family and friendships are to be nourished and treasured, and, of course, laughter is the best medicine! He and Donna spent most summer days on their porch on Madison Street in Chelsea, greeting neighbors and watching the world go by.

On July 25, 1949, he married Donna Jean Mathes in Ypsilanti, MI, and she survives. Other survivors include daughters: Barbara (Glen) Johnston of Ann Arbor, Nancy (Donald) Ray of Stockbridge, Cindy (Karl) Gauss of Whitmore Lake, Susan (Dennis) Bauer of Chelsea, and Sheri (Ron) Blakley of Chelsea; ten grandchildren: Michael Johnston, Lori (Brent) Newhouse, Jeremy (Angie) Wenger, Jennifer Wenger, Donald (Ashley) Ray, Brett (Amber) Ray, Kathleen (Jeremy) Brady, Corrina (Matt) Strecker, Darl (Carly) Bauer, and Cal (Amber) Bauer; numerous great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Joyce Frisbie Martin, great grandson Justin Wenger, and granddaughter-in-law Rhonda Johnston.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Please check back here for updates. Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Senior Center. 

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