Trending
Mr. Gerald "Jerry" Calvin Steinke, 84, of Royston, Michigan, died peacefully at his home, surrounded by loved ones, on Aug. 26, 2026. He was born on March 22, 1942, to the late Henry and Eleanora (Bahrke) Steinke in Royston. Raised on the family farm, Jerry learned the value of hard work, caring for the land, and looking out for family and neighbors.
Jerry owned and operated Steinke Forest Products for 25 years and Thunder Bay Sanitation for more than 30 years. He also served his church and community as vice president of St. John's Lutheran Church, Sunday school superintendent, Montmorency Township trustee for more than 30 years, and a member of the Hillman Fire Department Board.
Jerry enjoyed staying busy and spending time outdoors. He could often be found cutting wood, scrapping, hunting, or sitting down for a game of cards. He especially enjoyed those activities when his children and grandchildren joined him. Up until this last year, you could still find Jerry helping his oldest son bring in crops, driving tractor, or simply being present in his black truck at the end of a field. Whether working alongside his family, sharing stories, or laughing over a hand of euchre, Jerry treasured the time spent together.
What his family knows for sure is that everything Jerry did, he did for them and his faith. He worked hard, served his community and church, cared for the land, and built a life with those he loved always in mind. He wanted to leave this place better for those yet to come, and he did just that. His greatest legacy will live on in his family, in the lessons he taught, and in the love and example he leaves behind.
Jerry is remembered by his wife of 64 years, Linda Steinke; children, Eileen (Frank Montie) Steinke, Kevin (Kara) Steinke, Bethany (Scott) VanPamel, and Todd (Carey) Steinke; grandchildren, Dylan, Gage, Nash, Jordon (Nikki), Mason (Jensen), MacKenzie (William), Taylor, Ricki, and Nora; great-grandchildren, Haevyn, Banks, Bellamy, and Beckham; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Eleanora Steinke; and brothers, Harley and Edwin.
Funeral services for Jerry will take place at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Royston, with Pastor Jason Mandley officiating. Visitation will take place at the church on Friday, Aug. 28, 2026, from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. and again on Saturday from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Interment will follow at St. John's Lutheran Cemetery. Arrangements were entrusted to Green Funeral Homes. Condolences may be sent via our website at www.greenfuneralhomes.com.