VanDeGienste, GERARD (JERRY), age 81, of Davisburg, passed away Saturday, August 8, 2020. Born December 26, 1938, son to the late Gustaaf and Clementine VanDeGienste (nee Tessens). Loving husband of Roberta for 57 years; dear father of Kim (Don) Allen and Kristen (Steve) Lorenzo; proud grandfather of Brittany, Alex, Jacob and Megan; brother of Marlene (the late Edward) Perry. If you look up the word patience in the dictionary, you are sure to see a picture of Jerry. Jerry married his high school sweetheart, Roberta in 1963. Jerry was known to spoil Roberta throughout their marriage. During Jerry's final years, Roberta was able to do the same in return and care for Jerry, which ultimately made it possible for him to stay home, and eventually pass peacefully in his own bedroom. Jerry was a quiet guy with a big heart. Our fondest memories of him include: spending countless evenings with the grandkids playing every board game that was in the closet; cheering on the grandkids at their sporting events; his delight in watching his Detroit sports teams; the great pleasure that he had playing video poker (at the casino with his buddy Bob, or at home on the computer); his love and skill at the game of golf; his insatiable fondness for Hershey Bars and chocolate ice cream; his enjoyment of jigsaw puzzles-especially when he could frame them for a member of the family; and most of all, his unconditional love for his family. Jerry met a couple of angels a year ago, Maryanne and Val from McLaren Hospice. The family is eternally grateful to them and the kind and compassionate care that they provided at each and every visit to the house. They described Jerry as a trooper, fighting right until the end. The family would also like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Pat, Jerry's golf buddy, who has selflessly helped out over the last few years. "Okeedokee, thanks for everything" (as Jerry would say) that you did for us Dad! Due to the current pandemic, a private memorial service will be held. In lieu of flowers, Jerry's family requests that you consider a trip to a local casino and have fun, as Jerry loved to do. Kindly keep Jerry and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this time.