Jeri D. Gurtner, 75 years old, passed away at 5 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 10, 2017, at his home while surrounded by his family.  Jeri was born Sept. 13, 1941 in Wabash to the late Guilford and Pauline (Landis) Gurtner. He has been a lifelong resident of Bremen.  On Dec. 23, 1961 in Bremen, Jeri and Patsy Ann Gushwa were united in marriage.

Along with his loving wife of 55 years, Patsy, survivors include their two sons, Greg (Deb) Gurtner and Troy (Carla) Gurtner, both of Bremen; five grandchildren, Marci (Phil) Wicks, Kelsey Gurtner, Cameron Gurtner, Sara (Denny) Houser, and Zach Gurtner; one great- granddaughter soon to be born; sister, Nancy (Pete) Burks, Indianapolis, and two brothers, Jan (Joyce) Gurtner of Prescott Valley, AZ and Jeff (Cathy) Gurtner, Plymouth.

Jeri retired after 34 years as a school teacher at LaVille Jr.-Sr. High School where he taught Physical Education and Driver’s Education.  He was a member of Lakeville United Methodist Church and a graduate of Manchester University.  Jeri was a lifelong supporter of LaVille athletics, always present for his sons’ and grandchildren’s games, activities and accomplishments, spending many years as a fan and “correcting” referees from the stands.

Jeri enjoyed time at the lake with his family and friends.  He took great pleasure in mowing countless miles of Marshall County and dedicated his life to his passion for farming.

A celebration of Jeri’s life will held at 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 13 at the Palmer Funeral Home, within the Palmer Community Complex, 601 N. Michigan Street, Lakeville, IN.  Pastor Brian White will officiate.  Friends may visit with the family from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday at the Palmer Community Complex.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Jeri D. Gurtner may be donated to Lakeville United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 24, Lakeville, IN  46536 or LaVille High School Athletic Department, 69969 U.S. Highway 31, Lakeville 46536.  Online condolences may be offered to the Gurtner family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

Palmer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.