Gerald E. DeLong

Gerald E. DeLong, 91, passed into eternal life January 14, 2019 surrounded by his loving family.  Gerald was born March 08, 1927 to George and Josephine (Beaton) DeLong in Chesterton, IN.  He is preceded in death by his parents, sister, Donna Rossow, son, Gerald S. DeLong and his loving wife of 66 years, Helen DeLong.  Gerald retired from Bendix Corp. in South Bend, IN after 36 years of service.  He was a proud veteran of the United States Navy and served his country in WWII.  He is survived by four children,  JoAnn (Paul) Brubaker of Hamler, OH,  Debbie Hoover of Port Charlotte, FL, David (Denise) DeLong of Canal Winchester,OH/Englewood, FL,  Laurie Wachtmann of Fayette, OH.  Along with his lifelong WWII buddy, Charlie Johnson of South Bend, IN.

He is also survived by 12 grandchildren, Jason (Ruth) Elledge,  Josh (Heather) Stump,  Ryan (Crystal) Stump,  Justin Williams,  Stacia (Pedro) Williams,  Alyssa Williams,  Christopher (Rachel) Hoover, Anna Hoover,  Adam (Shania) DeLong, Devin DeLong, Brandon (Erin) Wachtmann and Braden Wachtmann.   He is also survived by 20 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren and numerous family, friends and loved ones.  Jerry was a gift to us all and anyone that had the pleasure of knowing him.  His giving heart and the love he had for his family will be forever missed.

~"The strength of those who wait with hope in the Lord will be renewed;  they will soar on wings like eagles;  they shall run, and not be weary;  and they shall walk, and not be faint."  Isaiah 40:31~

The DeLong family would like to thank Vancrest Health Care of Holgate for the wonderful care they provided and the Putnam County Hospice for his care in his final weeks.  In lieu of flowers or other mementos, the family prefers memorial contributions be made to Putnam County Hospice.  Online condolences may be given at www.grisierfh.com.

A graveside memorial service and celebration of Gerald's life will be held at a later date.   Funeral arrangements entrusted to Edgar-Grisier Funeral Home, Wauseon, Ohio. 

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