Gerald E. Reis

Jerry Reis passed away on Thursday, October 14, 2021 at Henry Ford Allegiance Hospital. He was born on January 3, 1942 in Milford, Michigan to Donald and Evelyn (Strange) Reis.  Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Nancy (Sendek) Reis; stepson, Geoff (Leslie) Putman; grandchildren, Lauren (Troy M. Allen), Thomas, Sam and Janie; brother, Don (Vicki) of Grand Haven; sister, Phyllis (Don) Rickard pf Pensacola, FL; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Ken; and sisters, Carol (Russ) DeRosa, and Joyce Reis.

Jerry's life centered around his family, athletics and education. He received a Bachelor of Science degree from Western Michigan University and Master of Arts degree from Eastern Michigan University.  Jerry was retired from Jackson Public Schools as a teacher, administrator and Athletic Director. Jerry's track coaching career began at Milford High School. He moved to Jackson in 1968 and continued his coaching career at Jackson High School and then at Jackson Community College where he coached several National Champions and All Americans prior to returning to Jackson High School as the Athletic Director. After retirement, he coached at Hanover Horton High School and also at Lumen Christi High School, where he won the 2015 Boys MHSAA Track Championship. Along with his track duties, he served as Athletic Director.

Jerry's legacy to high school sports includes:
· Meet Manager of the inaugural MHSAA Cross Country State Finals at MIS.
· Meet Manager for the MHSAA Track State Finals
· Founder of the Baseball and Softball Diamond Classic
· Meet Manager of the Selby Memorial Track Classic
· Meet Manager of the J. Chris Jensen Memorial Cross Country Meet
· Founder of the Jackson Area Wrestling Showdown

Jerry was the recipient of:
· Al Cotton Award
· MITCA State Track Coach of the Year
· MIAAA District Athletic Director of the Year.
· J. Chris Jensen Award

Jerry will be remembered for his soft-spoken demeanor, his love of high school athletics and his eagerness to help.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Jackson High School volleyball program, in care of Athletic Director Jack Fairly.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Wednesday, October 20 at 11:00 a.m. at Desnoyer Funeral Home. The family will receive friends on Monday, October 18 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Wednesday, October 20 at 10:00 a.m. also at Desnoyer Funeral Home.