Jerry Kanerva

Jerry Lee Kanerva, age 77, lovingly known as Papa, Papaw, or "Candy Man", lost his long battle with cancer early Friday morning, June 14, 2019. Longtime resident of Portage, MI, Jerry built a strong and loving family with wife Patricia. Together they owned Kanerva Masonry where he used his hands to craft ornate works of stone and brick. Preceded in death by his parents Oras and Irene Kanerva. Jerry is survived by his wife Patricia; sister Judy Lynne Granander; three children Tammie (Randy) Burgett, Duane (Janet) Kanerva, Darren (Angela) Kanerva; seven grandchildren whom he loved dearly, Tara (James Barber) Burgett, Shawnna (Brian) Figgins, Brittany (Brett) Deaton, Christine Kanerva, Brandon (Jessica) Kanerva, Dalton Kanerva, and Bryan David Kanerva; and best friend, Snickers (dog). A memorial will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, July 6 at Oakwood Bible Church in Portage, MI. The service will be preceded by a visitation at 9:30 AM and followed by a luncheon. Jerry was a beloved member of Oakwood Bible Church for over 50 years. Whereby he served his Lord and Savior faithfully by singing in the choir, driving kids to and from Awana, and being an active member of The Gideons International, serving as Treasurer of his chapter. In lieu of flowers the family would like donations be made to Gideons International in Jerry's memory.