Gerald J. ‘Jerry’ Pepin, Jr.

GLADSTONE — Gerald J. “Jerry” Pepin, Jr., 86, of Gladstone, passed away on Monday night, May 20, 2024, at Christian Park Village.

He was born in Escanaba on November 7, 1937, son to Gerald and Anna (Johnson) Pepin. Jerry graduated from Escanaba High School, class of 1955.

Jerry served in the U.S. Air Force for 20 years until his honorable discharge in 1975. Prior to his discharge, his last duty assignment was with the Aeronautical Systems Division, retiring as Master Sergeant. He was awarded the AF Longevity Service Award Ribbon with four Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters and AF Good Conduct Medal with three Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters.

On May 16, 1957, Gerald married Arlene N. Pepin at St. Joseph Church in Escanaba. They traveled extensively while Jerry was actively serving in the Air Force while raising their family. She preceded him in death on September 22, 2021.

Jerry enjoyed wintering in Florida, traveling, and enjoyed going to classic car shows.

He is survived by children, Gerald J. (Teresa) Pepin III of Escanaba, Wayne (Amanda) Pepin of Allendale, Mich., and Mark Pepin of Escanaba; grandchildren, Abigail “Abby” Pepin, Alex Pepin, Allison Pepin, Jayden Edwards, and Brittany Archuleta; siblings, Judy Davidson, Janet (Jim Charon) Charon, Cindy (Dave) Derenne, and Michelle (Joe) Menard; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, Arlene; Gerald was preceded in death by siblings, Suzette (Andy) Anderson, Geraldine (Archie) Reese, and Dennis Pepin; and brother-in-law, Al Davidson.

Visitation will be held on Friday, May 31 from 10 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. at the Crawford Funeral Home, 302 S. 13th St., Escanaba. The Mass of Christian Burial will follow at noon at St. Joseph and St. Patrick Church with Rev Tim Ferguson officiating.

A committal service and military honors will take place on Friday, at 2:30 p.m. at Gardens of Rest Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Joseph and St. Patrick Church.

A message of condolence may be directed to the family by visiting www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net. The Crawford Funeral Homes are assisting the Pepin family.