Gerald “Jerry” M. Poshak, 80, life long resident of Ely, passed away at his home Friday, September 25, 2015 with family at his side. Jerry was born July 31, 1935 to Joseph M. and Effie (Sund) Poshak of Ely.
In 1953, due to birth defects, Jerry underwent experimental heart surgery with Dr. C. Walton Lillehi and Dr. Owen Wagensteen. The surgery saved his life, but he continued a life-long battle due to birth defects. He graduated from Ely High School and Ely Jr. College. He worked and was retired from USFS Job Corps.
He then operated Jerry’s Westside Standard. In 1976 he established Our Own Hardware and later transitioned this to Hardware Hank and Ben Franklin of Ely for 39 years. He underwent another open heart surgery in 2001.
Jerry enjoyed hunting, fishing and working with his boys, Jay and Marc. With family he traveled extensively throughout the U.S. and some foreign countries. He loved to spend time at his cabins on Lake Vermilion.
He is survived by his wife Linda of 42 years, sons Jay and Marc, and faithful companion Hank, his black lab. Brother-in-laws: Lloyd (Mary) Gustafson, Lee Gustafson, niece Lynn (David) Schwob and nephew Mike (Susan) Gustafson and children; cousins: Elinor and Kathy Johnson, Susan and Matthew Erzar and Kristen (Nate) Anderson and children. He was preceded in death by parents Joseph and Effie, and infant brother Raymond, and several aunts uncles and cousins.
A memorial Service will be held Wednesday September 30, 11 a.m. at St Anthony’s Catholic Church, Ely. Visitation one hour prior. Arrangements are with Kerntz Funeral Home, Ely. To sign the online guest book or to send condolences, please visit www.kerntzfuneralhome.com