Gerald Anthony Horak

     Gerald “Jerry” Anthony Horak, age 91, of Elsie, Michigan, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2025, on the same family farm where he was born on June 4, 1934. A man of deep faith, unwavering work ethic, and a quiet generosity that touched countless lives, Jerry’s legacy is one built not only in wood and fields, but in compassion, community, and love.
     Jerry graduated from Elsie High School in 1952, and went on to proudly serve his country in the U.S. Army as part of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions. Upon returning home, he continued to serve others—never seeking recognition, but leading by example.
     A licensed general contractor, Jerry founded Horak Construction and spent decades building, restoring, and repairing homes, barns, and farm buildings throughout the area. Known for stepping in when a neighbor needed help—often charging little or nothing at all—his hands were steady, skilled, and always willing. He also completed construction projects for Green Meadow Farms for several years, earning deep respect across the agricultural community.
     Jerry’s faith was expressed not in words, but in how he lived—steady, humble, and always ready to serve. A founding member of the Bannister Knights of Columbus Council, he helped organize its annual charity golf outing for over 20 years, raising approximately $150,000 in support of local families and parish needs. Perhaps his most personal ministry was through woodworking. With patience and devotion, he crafted custom pieces for St. Cyril's Catholic Church in Bannister and made countless oak crosses, freely given to parishioners and community members alike. These crosses now held in homes near and far, remain quiet reminders of his faith and generosity. He also handcrafted the canes used by the ZCBJ Czech & Slovak heritage youth dance group.
     On October 4, 1958, Jerry married Margaret Ann Kusnier, and together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and service. They raised seven children—Margaret White (Greg), Joe (Stephanie), Chris (Debbie), Paul (Vicki), Mark (Sue), Theresa Sopocy (Steve),and Monica Spicer (Mike)—who learned from their parents the importance of humility, compassion, and helping others. Jerry and Margaret were honored as co-Grand Marshals of the 2025 Elsie Dairy Festival, a fitting recognition of their lifelong commitment to the community they loved.
     Jerry’s greatest joy was family. He delighted in watching his legacy grow through 29 grandchildren—including four sets of twins—and 11 great-grandchildren. He cherished their visits, family meals, and the quiet beauty of life lived on the land he farmed for nine decades. He especially enjoyed following them in their athletic endeavors.
     Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Mary Horak; his sister, Mary Frances Kasparek; his brother, Jim Horak; and brothers-in-law: Joe, John, and Jerry Kusnier.
     He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Margaret Ann; his seven children and their spouses along with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by relatives living in Straznice, Czech Republic including Helena & Frantisek Rozsypal, Kamil (Veronika) Rozsypal. Other survivors include his sister, Barbara (Terry) Seybert; sisters-in-law: Marsha Horak, Diane Kusnier, Mary Jane Holmes, and Anna Anderson (Chris); and brothers-in-law: Frank Kasparek, Robert Kusnier, and Rick (Carol) Kusnier. He leaves behind a community forever shaped by his example of steady kindness.
     A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Cyril's Catholic Church, Bannister, MI, on Monday, November 3, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. by family relative Rev. Fr. Michael Kuchar presiding. Burial with Military Honors will take place at Riverside Cemetery in Elsie. Visitation will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes, Elsie, MI, on Sunday, November 2, 2025, from 2-8 p.m., with the family present from 2–4 & 6-8 p.m. A wake service will be held at 3:30 p.m., followed by a Rosary being prayed at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
     In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to St. Cyril's Catholic Church or the Bannister Knights of Columbus, continuing Jerry’s lifelong commitment to supporting families in need. Online condolences may be made at www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Elsie, Michigan.