Jerry F. Abnet

Age: 78

ABNET, Jerry F.

Portage, MI

Jerry F. Abnet, age 78, of Portage passed away Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2015 at Bronson Methodist Hospital, Kalamazoo. Jerry was born on August 31, 1937 in Kalamazoo to the late Charles and Marian (Tyler) Abnet of Paw Paw. He graduated from Paw Paw High School in 1955. That fall he entered W.M.U. and played baseball for the legendary coach Charley Maher. A year later he signed a contract with the old Washington Senators and went south to play baseball. Jerry's career in baseball was abruptly ended when he lost his right hand in an accident. He then purchased steel for a local company until he retired. Jerry loved the outdoors. He loved to hunt, fish and played golf and gardened, but most of all Jerry loved baseball. He coached his son, church and many youngsters in the South Portage Little League for nine years. He also coached AYSO soccer and YBA basketball. Jerry was inducted in Paw Paw High School's hall of fame in 2004. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Marian Abnet and his brother Paul Abnet. Surviving are his wife of 58 years, Audrey, his son Chuck (Jennifer) Abnet of Kalamazoo and his much loved grandchildren, Ashton and Averi Abnet. Also surviving are his brother Louis (Janice) Abnet of Paw Paw and two sisters, Charlene Sweezy of Mesa, AZ and Linda Abnet of Pryor Lake, MN. Jerry was an extraordinary person. He faced many physical challenges with great courage and determination. His response to the really rough times was always, "Don't give up, don't ever give up." And he never did. Family will receive friends Saturday, Dec. 5th 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Marian Hall of St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church Portage. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. following visitation. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital or charity of choice. Share a memory or sign the guest book at www.adamspawpaw.com