Jerry M. Coon, Sr.

 Jerry M. Coon, Sr., of South Bend, passed away on the morning of Friday, February 7th, in his residence, at the age of 81.

Jerry, known to all his family and friends as “Mike”, was born on February 15, 1943, in South Bend, to the late Edwin M. and Lula D. (Henry) Coon.   On April 29, 1972, in South Bend, he married the love of his life, Gail F. Kalb.  They remained in the area where they raised their beautiful family. 

Mike was the owner and operator of Sierra Machine Shop.  In his spare time, he enjoyed going fishing with his best buddies, Bill, Jimmy and John, mushroom hunting, Nascar, playing euchre, and sipping on a red solo cup of beer while cheering for his favorite team, The Chicago Cubs and was known to be an avid bowler.   He found relaxation in tending to his garden and doing puzzles.  He had a gift of telling his life stories to his family and friends.  He loved spending time with them, especially with his grandchildren.   

Mike is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Gail F. Coon, along with their children, Jacqueline Badics of Bowling Green, Kentucky, Jerry M. (Julie) Coon, Jr. of Radcliff, Kentucky, Melissa (Jason) Baker, Amy (Anton) Sims, and James R. Coon all of South Bend.  He was the proud grandfather of 14, Paul, Toni, Danyell, Sierra, Chelsey, Alyssa, Jordan, Ryleigh, Kevin, Kristen, Jason, Justin, Brandyn and Brittney, and great-grandfather of 12.  He and Gail raised their granddaughter, Sierra, great granddaughter, Nevaeh and their granddaughter, Chelsey during highschool.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Sue Ehresman, a brother, David Coon and by Jacki’s lifetime partner, John Barkley.

The family is following Mike’s wishes to be cremated.  There will be a celebration of Mike’s life at 4:00 P.M. on Sunday, February 23, 2025, at Bowlers Country Club, 55839 Pine Rd, South Bend, IN 46619.  To honor Mike, memorial contributions may be made to the St. Joseph County Humane Society, 2506 Grape Road, Mishawaka, IN 46545 or to donor’s choice. 

The HANLEY and Sons Funeral Home “Southwest Chapel” and Cremation Service is handling arrangements and extends our deepest sympathy and heartfelt prayers to all of the Coon's family and friends. 

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