Jerome Wittkoski

Wittkoski, Jerome Jerry, son of Thomas and Helen (Tomaszewski) Wittkoski was born in Grand Rapids, MI on 10/20/38 and died after a 9 year battle with cancer on Saturday November 11, 2023. He attended St. James Elementary School, Union High School and Michigan State University and later was accredited with a CPA license. He served in the National Guard during the Detroit riots, becoming federally activated. In Grand Rapids, he first worked at Van Netter & Howell, which merged with Siedman and Siedman. As a result, he was transferred to the Lansing office because of his computer skills which were new at that time. Later, he opened his own practice in Lansing and was successful working with small businesses. Finally, he returned to Grand Rapids and worked as a controller and continuing his work at Fulton Lumber Company in Charlotte until his retirement. Jerry was involved in several religious and community groups, often serving as treasurer. Both in Grand Ledge and in North Grand Rapids, he was a faithful Rotarian. He was a ham radio operator (W8MSK) for over 70 years, which kept him challenged due to its many aspects. He enjoyed the many long friendships he made with this hobby he loved. When they were young, Jerry introduced his sons to the first home computer (Radio Shack) which launched them into a hobby as well as future careers. He and his wife were certified teachers of Natural Family Planning, for which they volunteered for 20 years. Members of St. Jude Parish, they were involved in RCIA, also for 20 years Surviving are Jerry’s wife, Irene, of 53 years and their sons John (Therese); Mark (Kimberly); Paul (Wendy); and Jim (Jennifer). Grandchildren include Eva and Joshua; Abby, Emma, and Owen; Catie, Natalie, and Emily; Evie; and great-grandson Aiden. Siblings are Jim (Trish) Wittkoski and Adele Southcott. Jerry was deeply grateful to all family and friends for their many prayers as well as other signs of love during his long illness. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday November 16, 2023 at 11:00 am at St. Jude Church. His family will receive visitors Wednesday November 15, 2023 from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm at the Arsulowicz Brothers East Mortuary, 937 Michigan St. NE and Thursday one hour prior to the Mass at church. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery. A Rosary will be prayed Wednesday at 6:30 pm at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Right to Life or St. Jude Parish Thank you to Hospice of Holland for their kindness and helpfulness at the end of his journey. The family is truly grateful for their care.

Tributes

Jerome Wittkoski

October 20, 1938 - November 11, 2023