Gerald "Jerry" Sinkel

Manton - It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Jerry Sinkel, who left us after a courageous battle with ALS on December 14, 2024, surrounded by loved ones.  Jerry was a man whose life was characterized by his unwavering faith, love of family, dedication to education, and passion for sports. He was 73 years old.

A long-time member of Rollins Church in Manton, Jerry’s faith was the cornerstone of his life.  He was a youth leader and taught Sunday School for 40 years while sharing the message of hope and love with generations of children and adults. Even in his final days, Jerry’s faith remained unshaken, often reminding those around him, “Life is Good” and he was “dandy”.  It was his deep belief in God that sustained him, and he lived his life as a testament to the power of faith.

Jerry was married to his loving wife, Jane Elizabeth Sinkel, for 51 years, and together they raised four children. A Detroit city boy married a small town Manton girl.  They shared a love of adventure, often traveling to visit friends and exploring the beauty of nature. One of their greatest joys was kayaking, and they spent countless hours on the water, discovering hidden lakes together. Over the years, Jerry and Jane kayaked 217 different lakes, creating memories that will last a lifetime. When they weren’t kayaking, they cherished their time at their private island, Florence Island, where they found peace and joy in each other’s company. One of their favorite traditions was hosting Sunday lunch for the whole family, a time when they could gather after church, share stories, and celebrate life together. Jerry always treasured family time and never missed an opportunity to be with those he loved.

He was also a man of boundless energy, always on the move prior to the disease. Whether he was tackling a home project, staying active with exercise, playing catch with a child or grandchild, or enjoying a round of golf, he never sat still. His love for life was reflected in his constant pursuit of meaningful activities and time spent with those he cared about.  Even in his later years and during his battle, Jerry never lost his enthusiasm for life. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he was always present for his children’s and grandchildren's sporting events. He remained their biggest fan, recently having games live streamed when he could not physically be in attendance so he could cheer them on from home-and, true to his character, offer his opinions on the referees!  He never missed an opportunity to watch his own children and grandchildren.  Jerry’s sense of humor remained strong throughout his life, and he never missed a chance to share one of his trademark “Grandpa jokes.” He was a bit of a mischief-maker, always ready with a witty remark or a playful laugh.  Jerry was known for his resilience and his belief that “God won’t give us more than we can handle. I just wish God didn’t have so much confidence in me.” His family has no doubt that he was met in Heaven with the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” His last wish was that those closest to him would follow the same path of faith, so that they may all be together again one special day.

A lifelong lover of sports, Jerry’s passion for running began in his hometown of Detroit when his close friend invited him to go for a run. Jerry soon demonstrated his natural talent and went on to become a celebrated runner. He was a Class B State Champion in 1968 in Cross Country and Track Two-Mile Champion in 1969. His running times were remarkable: 440 in 49.8 seconds, 880 in 1:53, 1 mile in 4:15, and 2 miles in 9:24. His achievements led him to a scholarship at Central Michigan University, where he set a record that still stands today in the 4x800 with a time of 7:38.34.  He was also the Central Collegiate Champion in the 1000-yard run in 1972.  He ran year round and earned 12 varsity letters during his time at CMU in Cross Country, Indoor Track, and Outdoor Track.

Jerry’s career was as diverse as it was impactful. He worked at Great Lakes Steel and was a carpenter in the summers while attending college, a testament to his work ethic and determination. While living in Mount Pleasant with his young family, he worked for UPS for three years while pursuing degrees in business and education. Jerry’s true calling, however, was in education. He taught third grade, physical education, and Title Math at Manton Schools before transitioning into administration as an elementary principal.  He spent 11 years at Manton Schools. Following that, Jerry spent 18 years as a principal and Curriculum Director at Cadillac Area Public Schools, where he earned the prestigious titles of Michigan Principal of the Year in 2003 and National Distinguished Principal in 2004.  Jerry volunteered on numerous committees and boards including Rollins Church, Munson Hospital, Manton Schools, and Cadillac Community Foundation.  He was recently inducted into Manton’s Cross Country Hall of Fame for establishing the Cross Country program there.  Even after his official retirement, Jerry’s commitment to education didn’t waver. He returned to the field, working through his own LLC, JABD Education Consulting, and spent four more years serving as a contracted consultant and student teaching supervisor at Central Michigan University. 

Above all, Jerry was a family man who cherished his wife, children, and grandchildren. His love for his family was unwavering, and he found great joy in sharing moments with those closest to him. Jerry’s life will be remembered for his dedication to God along with his tireless service to his community, his exceptional accomplishments in education, his love for running, and his deep and abiding faith and love for his family and wife. He leaves behind a legacy that will inspire all who knew him to live with purpose, passion, and love.

Jerry is survived by his wife Jane, children Jeff (Brittany) Sinkel, Jill (Alvin) Sinkel-Juliet, Jaime (Jonathon) Heuker, Joanna (Trent) Mulder and grandchildren Jordan (Kaley), Averee, Brady, Clayton, Dominik, Braxton, Emma, Colton, Hudson, and Anderson along with a great-grandchild due in January.  He also survived by brother James (Paula) Sinkel, sister-in-law Ann (Carl) Dimmick, great aunts Ruth Swanson, Barbara Johnson, and Joyce Johnson along with many nieces and nephews.  His memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.  Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Mildred Sinkel; his in-laws, Paul and Emma Prothero; his sisters, Nancy Degenfelder and Karen Grimshaw; and his brothers-in-law, George Grimshaw and Vance Dimmick. 

Jerry’s family would also like to extend their deepest gratitude to all those who supported Jerry throughout his battle. Whether through visits, cards, prayers, gifts, or meals, Jerry and Jane were overwhelmed with the love and kindness shown by so many. They wanted to personally thank each of you, but there are simply too many to name. Please know that they appreciated every gesture, and your support meant the world to them and their whole family.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 18th from 5:00-7:00 P.M. at Rollins Church with a funeral service at Rollins Church at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 19th with a luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Jerry Sinkel Memorial Fund where donations will be given to the following charity/causes:  Rollins Church, Hospice of Munson, Jerry Sinkel Scholarship Fund, Manton Consolidated Schools, or Cadillac Area Public Schools.  If you wish to identify the charity/cause of your choice please do so on the envelope provided or the memo on the check.  

“Life is Good” and it was because of his faith.  Like Jerry would say, “The news of my death has been greatly exaggerated, I have just been relocated to a new residency, HEAVEN.” Condolences and memories may be shared with the family online at www.Hall-Holdship.com  The family is being served by the Hall-Holdship Funeral Home.  

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