Jerry Zahm

Gerald Michael “Jerry” Zahm, age 87, passed away peacefully Sunday, July 5, at home surrounded by his loving family and under the care of Faith Hospice. He was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, son of Raymond and Bernice (Bowler) Zahm, both of whom preceded him in death. He married Carol Susan Sydow on February 11, 1961, at St. Charles Catholic Church in Greenville, and she survives to mourn his passing. Jerry and Susie shared 65 beautiful years together.

Jerry spent his career in the Tool and Die Business working for Jordan manufacturing in Belding for 30 years finishing up at Belco industries until retirement. Jerry loved his Catholic faith and was very active in his Catholic community by the being creator and developer of the Fish Wagon and proceeded to work several years volunteering for Fish Fry Fridays Jerry also loved being very active with participating in Golf Leagues throughout the years traveling to sporting events with his buddies. But his passion was racing, short track long track, dirt or concrete didn’t matter, which is how he earned the nickname “ Governor” , he could talk to anyone at any level of the sport, drivers, owners, pit crew you name it he knew them all by name, he was a season ticket holder at Michigan international Speedway for 50 years. Jerry and Susie took many excursions with family and friends throughout the years to various Locations including trip to Australia to visit lifetime friends. Jerry had the ‘ultimate man cave’ and shared many special times there with his buddies.

Jerry will be greatly missed by his wife Susie, Daughters Tammy (Paul) Parrott, Wendy Leatherman and Grandchildren Maddie, Molly and Mitchell Lake; and his sister, Lana Green. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son-in-law William (Amos) and Son Michael.

A Funeral Mass will take place on Friday, July 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 403 S. Bridge Street, Belding, Michigan 48809, with Fr. Adrew Ayers the Celebrant. Visitation will take place at the Church for an hour prior to the Mass beginning at 10:00 a.m. Those wishing to express their sympathy are recommended to consider a donation to Faith Hospice. Envelopes will be available at the service, or you may contact Verdun Family Funeral Home at 303 S. Bridge Street, Belding, Michigan or call (616) 794-1300 for more information.