Jerry Petersen

Gerald Petersen of Portage, age 87, died on December 28, 2025. Jerry was born August 28, 1938 in Niles. He met the love of his life, Kathleen Maurer, through work—though he fondly remembered first seeing her years earlier as a little girl riding her tricycle. When they were older, he respectfully asked her mother if he could take Kathy on a date. This began a love story that lasted for over 62 years. Jerry often said he liked being around Kathy more than being away from her. Together they shared an easygoing, agreeable partnership, focusing on life as a family and always doing things side by side.

Jerry proudly served in the U.S. Navy from 1957 to 1959 aboard an aircraft carrier and played trombone in a Navy band, nurturing a lifelong love of brass band music. He later built a successful career installing beverage systems for bars, restaurants, casinos, and hotels, eventually purchasing the division and becoming its owner. Known for his friendly nature, Jerry loved talking with everyone he met on the job. Steady, calm, and joyful, he maintained a positive outlook even in difficult times.

An outdoorsman at heart, Jerry enjoyed kayaking, ice fishing, and annual trips to Drummond Island with friends for deer hunting—more for the camaraderie than the hunt. He also loved good food, never missing a meal prepared by Kathy, and was famous for late-night snacks…for which he blamed “the dog was hungry!”

Preceding him in death are his parents, Harry and Holly (Herran) Petersen; and siblings: Margorie Hover, Shirley McCrory, James Petersen, and Deborah Svien. Surviving are his wife, Kathy; children: Scott (Sarah) Petersen and Erin (Ryan) Fitzpatrick; grandchildren: Jack, Mary, and Scott; and many nieces and nephews.

Celebrate Jerry’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association. Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900.