Gerald Lamphear

Gerald Earl Lamphear, of Kalamazoo, MI passed away on Monday, November 23, 2015 at the age of 84. Gerald was born in Kalamazoo on May 24, 1931, the son of the late Clarence and Nellie (Merkle) Lamphear. He served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War and with the Naval Reserves for 15 years. He received Bachelors Degrees from both Western Michigan University and the University of Michigan. He worked as a mechanical engineer and also had owned and managed a resort & campground in Northern Wisconsin. He attended St. Luke's Episcopal Church. He enjoyed sailing and writing. He had written three plays that were produced. Gerald is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Arburl "Pete" (Shook) Lamphear; two children, Paul (Sandra "Sam") Lamphear of Kalamazoo and Daniel Lamphear of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; three brothers and two sisters, Richard (Gloria) Lamphear of North Carolina, Larry (Linda) Lamphear of Tennessee, Leon Lamphear of Kalamazoo, Jean (Marvin) Michael of Kalamazoo and Judy (Wade) Craig of Florida. He was preceded in death by two sons and one daughter, Matthew Lamphear, Karl Lamphear and Laura Lamphear; and one sister-in-law, Jane Lamphear. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will take place in the spring. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Arrangements by Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Memorial Chapel.