Gerald D. Petz

Gerald D. Petz 

On October 20, Gerald (Jerry) Petz of Cranford, NJ Passed away peacefully at age 83 from complications of Bone Cancer.  

Jerry was born on January 9, 1941 in Clarence, NY to Gertrude (nee Grimm) and Albert Petz. He is survived by his son David G. Petz (Linda) of Clarks Summit, PA; daughter Deborah L. Oliver of Citrus Heights, CA; and grandchildren Haley and Sarah Petz and Haden and Amelia Oliver. 

Jerry attended University of Buffalo where he met Carol, his wife of 59 years, and later graduated from Erie County Technical Institute. He served in the US Army after graduating college.  

Jerry worked for 40 years for Construction Specialties in Cranford. He and Carol were members of the Cranford United Methodist Church for over 50 years. He was a beloved member who was heavily involved in every aspect of the church. His wisdom and leadership guided the church through many improvements and transitions. He was an also active volunteer with Boy Scout troop 75 while his son was a scout. 

After his retirement, Jerry became active in Union County 4-H, teaching engineering to students, and English as a second language to adults. He also became a Master Tree Steward in Union County, teaching 4th graders about trees, and helping to identify and care for trees in the county.  

Jerry always had a positive outlook towards life. He had a deep spirituality and strong values, which guided him in every aspect of his life. His commitment to those around him was unwavering, and he formed deep and devoted friendships with those he surrounded himself with. He was an exceptional father, mentor, and friend to his children, and their biggest fan. Whatever life threw at his children, he was always right there by their side. His quirky sense of humor, positive outlook and devotion to his family, friends and church was only eclipsed by his unwavering commitment to caring for Carol through her 11-year battle with Alzheimer’s. He was a good man with a kind heart and a gentle soul.  

Visitation will be held at Gray Funeral Home, 12 Springfield Ave, in Cranford on Monday, November 25, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm. A service celebrating Jerry’s life, officiated by Rev. HyunHui Kim, PhD, will follow at 4:00 PM. Interment of his cremated remains will take place at Fairview Cemetery, 1100 E. Broad St, Westfield, NJ on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at 10:00 AM. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Shriner’s Children’s Hospital (https://donate.lovetotherescue.org).