From the Farm Fields to the Lodge Room
Six Lakes Lodge No. 454 | 57-Year Mason
Gerald R. “Jerry” Stickler became a Mason shortly after graduating from high school, joining Remus Lodge and beginning a lifelong commitment to the values of Freemasonry. Jerry and his wife, Eleanor, were married on September 19, 1959, and together built a life centered on faith, family, hard work, and community.
A dedicated farmer for many years, Jerry worked as a framer, milked cows, and raised crops while providing for his family. He and Eleanor raised three children on their farm, where Jerry’s love for the land and dairy farming became the foundation of his life’s work. Even after retiring from farming, he remained deeply connected to the farm and took great joy in keeping up with its daily activities.
Throughout his career, Jerry also served his community as a bus driver and later as Maintenance Supervisor for the local school district. He spent 17 years caring for the facilities of Chippewa Hills Schools before retiring in 2005.
Jerry was a proud life member of the Order of the Eastern Star and the Masonic Lodge in Six Lakes. He passed away just one day before his 79th birthday, leaving behind a legacy of service, friendship, and dedication.
Those who knew Jerry remember his quick wit, infectious sense of humor, and ability to make friends wherever he went. There wasn’t a waitress in Mecosta County who didn’t know his name when he walked through the door. Often referred to as the community’s “unofficial neighborhood watch,” Jerry could frequently be found traveling the countryside in his golf cart, keeping an eye on friends and neighbors.
Jerry enjoyed dancing, hunting, fishing, bluegrass music, and classic Western movies. In his younger years, he participated in rodeos and maintained a lifelong love of horses. One of his favorite pastimes was spending time at the family cabin in Kalkaska with Eleanor.
Above all, Jerry was devoted to his family and took immense pride in his children and grandchildren. His kindness, work ethic, humor, and commitment to others left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Submitted with love by his wife: Eleanor Stickler