Mark James Jerome

     Mark James Jerome, age 41, of Sumner, MI, passed away Thursday, August 13, 2026.
     A Memorial Service will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes Ithaca, MI, at 4:00 P.M. on Friday, August 21, 2026, with Pastor Mona Kindel officiating. Visitation will be held on Friday, August 21, 2026, from 2:00 P.M. until the time of the service at the funeral home.
     Mark was born in Alma, MI on October 13, 1984, the son of Paul R. Jerome and Lori Jean (Keller) Schlappi. He graduated from Ithaca High School.
     Throughout Mark's life, he worked in various trades. He found his passion in butchery and meat processing, and in his spare time would process deer meat with his family.
     His greatest joy in life was his daughter, Miranda. He spent a lot of time with her outdoors riding four wheelers, mud bogging, and foraging for mushrooms.
     Mark was a stubborn man with a great sense of humor and an even greater sense of loyalty. Mark would give the shirt off of his back to anyone that would come to him for help. He will be deeply missed by his friends and family.
     He is survived by his daughter Miranda Jerome; fiancée Christina Wilson; parents: Paul (Melissa) Jerome and Lori (Lee) Schlappi; siblings: Mary (Chad Maurer) McClain, Michael (Tonya) Jerome, and Jacob Jerome; step-sisters: Heather (Gene) Badder, and Amber (Josh) Bloss. He is also survived by his godparent Richard Harless; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Mark was preceded in death by his grandparents William and Helen Keller, and Roscoe and Flora Jerome; and many aunts and uncles.
     Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Ithaca, Michigan.