George Burkey

Gerard "Jerry" George Burkey, 75, of Vermilion, died Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at his home after a lengthy illness. He was born December 5, 1934 in Stanton Island, NY and has been a Vermilion resident for the past 45 years. He was a 10 year veteran of the US Navy and also served in the National Guard retiring from the US Army National Guard in 1994. Jerry worked as an assembler and tow motor operator at Ford Motor Co., Lorain for 30 years, retiring in 1993. He was a loving man with a true servant's heart. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church, Vermilion where he was involved assistant director of Sunday School and was craft coordinator of Vacation Bible School. He served as the Director of the Home Bound Ministries and was also an usher and greeter. He was a member of AMVETS Post #22 and the VFW Post #7576. Jerry was an avid bowler and enjoyed crafts. Survivors include his wife of 51 years, Patricia Burkey (nee Houston); daughter, Margaret (Thomas) Knott of Wakeman; grandson, Zachary Knott; and brother, Joseph Burkey of Montana. Preceding him in death were his parents, George and Anna Marie (nee McSorley) Burkey, and four brothers. Friends may call Sunday, Feb. 28, 2010 from 4-8 pm at the Riddle Funeral Home, 5345 South Street, Vermilion, Ohio where the Vermilion Veterans council will conduct military honors at 7:30 pm. Services will be held at the Riddle Funeral Home, Monday, March 1, 2010, at 11 am with the Rev. Donald Resecker officiating. Interment will follow in Resthaven Memory Gardens, Avon. Contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church, 6716 West River Rd., Vermilion, OH 44089. online condolences may be made at www.riddlefuneralhome.com