Dr. James F. Gerrits' Obituary
Dr. James Gerrits, M.D., a long term general practitioner in the St. Clair area, died on Wednesday, December 13, 2006, at home. He was 85 years old. Dr. Gerrits left college after Pearl Harbor and enlisted in the Army Air Forces. Trained as a bomber pilot, he was based in Africa and England. A brother, David, also a bomber pilot in Europe during World War II, was killed in action. On discharge after 5 years service in the military, Dr. Gerrits returned to college with the aid of the GI Bill and then medical school. He began practice in 1955 after serving an internship at St. John Hospital, Detroit.
Dr. Gerrits married Lois Evans, R.N., daughter of a South Dakota farm family in 1949. He is survived by his wife and their eight children, Linda M. Gerrits, M.D., Thomas Gerrits (Renae), Susan Gerrits, J.D. (Kevin Murphy), Andrew Gerrits, J.D., Peggy Gerrits, M.D. (Hack Nagler), Peter Gerrits, M.D. (Charlotte), Patrick Gerrits (Kathy), and Timothy Gerrits (Julie).
In accordance with Dr. Gerrits’ wishes, his body has been donated to Wayne State University Medical School, for student instruction. His remains will be cremated, and his ashes spread by his children.
A long time member of St. Mary’s parish in St. Clair, a memorial Mass in his memory will be offered at St. Mary’s Church on Saturday, December 16th, at 10:00a.m. Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s School. Local arrangements by L.C. Friederichs & Son.
JFG
(Note: This is Doc’s final letter to the editor, which he wrote himself in 2004.)
What’s your fondest memory of Dr. James F.?
What’s a lesson you learned from Dr. James F.?
Share a story where Dr. James F.'s kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Dr. James F. you’ll never forget.
How did Dr. James F. make you smile?