Gerald Lee Napieralski, of Dorr, died Tuesday, March 17, at the age of 68.
Gerald (Jerry) was born in Grand Rapids on June 1, 1957, the 14th of 15 children and youngest son of Florian and Pauline (McPheter) Napieralski. Growing up in a large family, Jerry’s childhood was regimented with a lot of family time including regular fishing trips with his father and older siblings after mass on Sunday mornings.
He married Cindy (Boverhof) on March 17, 1978. The couple had one son, Joseph. On Aug. 1, 1987, he wed and would spend the rest of his life with Denise (Bittner), and they welcomed two children, Heather and Terry, collectively committing to what mattered most, Jerry, Denise, and Cindy took great pride in their unique bond, friendship, and united approach to raising their blended family together.
An avid outdoorsman, Jerry loved meddling in his garden, fishing and hunting with his children and grandchildren, treasuring those trips and the memories they created. A hallmark of those trips was a 2023 journey through Alaska with his wife Denise. “We’ll always have Alaska” he often recounted.
A lifelong University of Michigan supporter and devoted Detroit Lions fan, he enjoyed sharing that passion with family and friends. Jerry also dedicated more than 25 years of his career to Steelcase, where he was more commonly known by his nickname, “Napper.” His steady work ethic, kindness, and occasional pranks left a lasting impact on many colleagues over the years.
Always known for his passion for music, witty sense of humor, and love for telling a good story, there was no shortage of questionably timed jokes, “tales from deer camp,” or turning the radio up mid conversation to sing along to his favorite song.
Among his passions, his true talent was putting a smile on the faces of those around him. Whether you were a close friend, or working behind the counter at the local bank, his job was not done until he got a laugh or grin out of you.
Jerry could be described in many words, though quiet not often among them. He faced multiple health challenges with extraordinary courage. Over the years he endured multiple prolonged hospital stays and grueling periods of physical rehabilitation, always meeting each setback with calm determination and a steady sense of humor. Throughout his battle with bile duct cancer, Jerry remained resolute and hopeful, drawing strength from family, friends, and the small joys of everyday life.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Mary, Dee, Chuck, Richard, Paul, Bob, John, Agnes, Flo, Dan and Pat; and grandson, John Paul.
He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Denise; mother to his eldest son, Cindy; children Joseph (Gwendolyn), Heather (Kevin) Smith, Terry; grandchildren Brendan, Brett, Trent, Maleah, Colette, Isaiah, Clara; siblings Ray, Bill (Kim), Anne (Dennis) Karnik; and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of his life will be held Saturday, April 25, at Heritage Baptist Church, 1570 60th St. SE, Kentwood. Visitation will take place from 10:30-11:45 a.m. prior to the noon service. There will be a luncheon immediately following the service.
