Jerry L. Elder, 72, of Newaygo, died Monday, May 16, 2016 at Metro Health Hospital. Jerry was born May 7, 1944 in Cedar Springs, Michigan, the son of Cecil and Virginia (Hanna) Elder. He served in the U.S. Marine Corp during the Vietnam War. He owned and operated Elder Forest Products since 1981. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting and fishing. He loved his work at the sawmill and most importantly the numerous family gatherings with his children and grandchildren. Surviving are his wife of 53 years, Darlene (Wert); children, Chad (Melody) Elder, Tammy (Brian) Hills, Gerry Aley; 8 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; mother, Virginia Fisher; sister, Judy (Dan) Sturgeon; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a son, Maurice Dean; brothers, Jack and Ralph. The family will greet friends Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 pm at the Bliss-Witters & Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs where the service will be held Friday 2:00 pm. Pastor Chuck Smith officiating. Interment with military honors at Solon Township Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Metro Health Hospital or the Friends of the Michigan Veterans Home.

Arrangements by Bliss-Witters & Pike Funeral Home,
Cedar Springs