Gerald F. Frechette

January 13, 1948 – September 30, 2026

Gerald Francis "Jerry" Frechette, age 78, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2026, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease.

Jerry was born on January 13, 1948, in Green Bay, Wisconsin. He was the beloved adopted son of Arthur and Justyna (Schwartz) Frechette. He attended Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic High School and, following graduation, proudly enlisted in the United States Army. Jerry faithfully served his country during the Vietnam War, an experience that reflected the quiet strength and dedication that would characterize his entire life.

While in high school, Jerry met the love of his life, Mary Jo. After returning home from Vietnam, they were eager to begin their future together and were married on April,1969. Their marriage was a remarkable testament to love, commitment, and partnership. Together they built a beautiful life and were blessed with three children: Paul in 1970, Anne Marie in 1974, and Mary Beth in 1980.

Family was at the center of Jerry's life. His steady presence, unwavering support, and quiet dependability were the foundation upon which his family relied. He worked for many years at Michigan Bell Telephone, later Ameritech and ultimately AT&T, where he built a long and respected career as a toll testman before retiring in 2008.

Jerry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who rarely missed a baseball game, dance recital, church choir concert, or any event involving those he loved. A dedicated member of St. Benedict’s parish where he served on the church pastoral council, co-chaired the annual parish Fun Fest. He also coached youth sports teams, volunteered in elementary school programs, and was always willing to lend a hand whenever his church, community, or a local organization needed support. Although his playful holiday nickname was "The Grinch," everyone knew he secretly cherished having his family and friends gathered together under one roof.

An avid reader, Jerry could often be found reading the newspaper cover to cover each evening after work or enjoying a Louis L'Amour novel on the weekends. He also took great pride in the family home where he was raised and later raised his own children, a home originally built by his father. Jerry's yard was always meticulously cared for, and even the countless leaves and sticks that fell from the towering oak trees each autumn were no match for his dedication and hard work.

Jerry will be remembered for his strong work ethic, humble nature, and deep love for his family. We could not have asked for a better husband, Dad, Pops, Grandpa, Great-Grandpa, and friend. Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we find comfort in knowing he is now free from suffering and resting in the arms of Jesus. His memory, values, and the love he shared will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Justyna Frechette; his sisters, Sally and Sharon; and his parents-in-law, Paul and Harriet Hagan.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Mary Jo; his son, Paul (Deanna); his daughters, Anne Marie (Jeff) and Mary Beth (Angelo); his grandchildren, Jacob (Sadie), Dominic (Emee), Nomi (Justin), Rachel (Patrick), Sierra, Grace, Charlotte, Natalia, Angelo Jr., Giuliana, and Leo; and his cherished great-grandchildren, Mackenzie, Aubrey, Braxton, Wednesday, Evelyn, Braiden, Ryder, Bentley, Maverick, Trenton, and Ellie.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Benedict Catholic Church, 80 S. Lynn Street, Waterford Township, Michigan. Family and friends are invited to gather at the church beginning at 9:30 a.m. until the time of Mass. Following the service, a luncheon will be held in the parish hall. Interment with military honors will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jerry's memory to the Alzheimer's Association or St. Paul of the Cross Passionist Retreat Center.

Arrangements entrusted to COATS FUNERAL HOME - WATERFORD.

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