Gerald Joe Bachelder

Gerald Joe Bachelder passed away on July 18, 2024, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Jerry was born on October 6, 1945, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, the son of Glenn (Pete) and Editha (Bobbie) Bachelder.

Jerry's early years were filled with the adventures of a typical 1960's teenager. He had a passion for hot rods, spending countless hours working on and driving them, and he was known for his love of drag racing. This enthusiasm for life carried over into his adult years, where he found joy in the simple pleasures of hunting and fishing, activities he enjoyed with his parents, Pete and Bobbie.

Jerry served the City of Hastings Department of Public Services professionally with unwavering commitment for 40 years before retiring in 2001.

His life was marked by the joy and companionship of two marriages; first to Sandra Kay Strickland in 1968, and then to Shirley M. Lamse in 2000, both of which ended in divorce. Despite the changes in his personal life, Jerry remained a steadfast friend and a cherished member of his community.

Jerry was a member of the Elks Lodge, where he found camaraderie and community. His dad had beagles and rabbit hunted for many years, which attributed to Jerry's love for dogs. He raised coonhounds and then rolled over into rabbit hunting with beagles like his dad. He was involved for many years with the United Kennel Club.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, and his best friend, George Winick. He is survived by many special friends, including Dave Wilcox, Dan Murphy, Jed Nichols, Rob Fenstemaker and Chad Cusack; and godchildren Ryan (Jaymee) Hartman and their children Zeke and Thatcher, and Brittany (Nate) Dowler, and their daughter Natalie.

Following Jerry's wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral service.  Memorial Contributions can be made to the Hastings Elks #1965, PO Box 143, Hastings MI 49058. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net.