Jane (Gerken) Malski

Mrs. Jane (Gerken) Malski, age 83, of Howard City, passed away on Monday, July 21, 2008. After growing up on the farm and graduating as Valedictorian of her class, Jane moved to Chicago. She studied Journalism and worked as a reporter for one of the local newspapers. For 28 years Jane worked as a secretary for the AFL-CIO at Peter Josaphaitis Local #1231 in Grand Rapids. Jane was all about kindness and was very sensitive concerning the needs of her children. She was all about enjoying the out-of-doors and being with her family and friends. Watching sports was a true passion for Jane. She enjoyed basketball, especially the Lakers, NASCAR racing (#39 Kevin Harvick), and tennis. She loved to read and work crossword puzzles. Most recently she was interested in reminiscing about earlier times in life. Her family loved listening to the "good ole days." Jane is survived by her children, Norma and Denny Taylor of Howard City, and Larry and Clairanne Gerken of Grand Rapids; grandchildren, Jake Huff, Lisa VanDam, Casey and Stacy Gerken, Drew Gerken, Paul and Kim Turowski, Sandy and Todd Alcumbrack, Shelly and Steve Allwelt, and Leslie Johnston; great grandchildren, Amanda, Austin, Jimmy, Ethan, Ashley, Taylor, and Dakota; and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Ray Gerken and Ray Malski, granddaughter, Lori Huff, and brothers, Bill and Norm Harner. Visitation for Jane will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home followed by a service at 8:00 p.m. with Rev. Doug Bennett officiating. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider DeGage Ministries, 144 S. Division, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. The Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford www.pedersonfuneralhome.com