Jerry "Cowboy" Crummel

Jerry Dale "Cowboy" Crummel, age 78, of Mendon, passed away on February 26, 2025, from causes related to an automobile accident. December 1 2022, Born on March 10, 1946, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to Harold and Donna Tyler Crummel, Jerry was a man of vivacity, known for his love of life and adventurous spirit. Jerry graduated from Delton, Michigan, in 1964 and soon after served his country in the Army from 1967 to 1969. Following his military service, he embarked on a long and dedicated career as a truck driver for R&L Carriers, where he remained for 30 years. His work ethic and commitment to his job were as unwavering as his love for his family and friends. Family was the cornerstone of Jerry's life. He was a devoted father to his children with Judith Gay: George, Heather, and Eric. Byran. His second marriage to Diane (Gifford) Crummel in 2016 blended their families, adding Mindy, Matthew, Trina, and Kaylie to his brood. Jerry was a proud grandfather to 14 grandchildren: Kaila, Nick, Kaitlyn, Kendal, Madilyn, Sawyer, and Diane's eight grandchildren, who all brought immense joy and laughter into his life. Cowboy, as he was affectionately known, never lost his zest for the outdoors. Camping in Kalkaska, Michigan, and horseback riding were among his favorite pastimes. In 2011, he fulfilled a lifelong dream by purchasing a Harley, which he rode with the same enthusiasm with which he approached all his endeavors. His faithful dog, Scooter, was often by his side, a loyal companion on many adventures. Jerry was a man who lived by the philosophy, "It's not the years in your life that count, it's the life in your years," a sentiment expressed by Abraham Lincoln. He embodied this idea, doing "crazy things" all his life, with a daredevil streak that was matched only by his generous heart. He leaves behind a loving family: his wife, Diane; his children and stepchildren; his cherished grandchildren; his siblings, Barb Vanvoorst, Brenda and Jack Moore, Cheryl and Mike Lathrop, and his brother Tiny. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Donna, and his brother Bob). Also brother in laws (Mike Lathrop), His cousins Tim, Tyler, Marilyn, and Janice is a big part of his journey with Aunt (Helen Tyler who died 2016) also hold dear the memories they shared with Jerry. Cowboy's legacy is one of laughter, boldness, and a boundless capacity to love. His absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him, but the stories of his escapades and the warmth of his presence will be treasured by his family and the many friends he made along his journey through life. Jerry's life was a testament to the power of living fully, embracing each moment with courage and a smile. As we say goodbye to Cowboy, we take comfort in knowing that he lived a life full of the richness and excitement that so many only dream of. A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Jerry Dale "Cowboy" Crummel rode through this world with a heart full of joy, and although his ride has come to an end, the tracks he left behind will guide us for years to come.