Paul J. Gingrass Jr.

Paul J. Gingrass, Jr., 84, of Iron Mountain, passed away on Wednesday, March 12, 2014 at Freeman Nursing & Rehabilitation Community in Kingsford. Paul was born January 25, 1930 in Iron Mountain, son of the late Paul Sr. and Marie (Wahl) Gingrass. As a child, Paul's father was the sheriff and his family lived in the Dickinson County Courthouse. He graduated from Iron Mountain High School in 1948. As a talented athlete in High School, Paul was a Star halfback for the football team and pitcher for the American Legion baseball team. Directly following graduation, he was invited to try out for the Chicago Cubs. He then attended Northern Michigan University where he again starred as halfback on the football team and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education. During his time at NMU, Paul spent one year in the U.S. Marine Corp serving his country. He began his career as a salesman in the family business with Standard Printing Co. in 1955 and worked there for over 35 years, retiring in 1992. Paul married Elizabeth Giordana on August 5, 1966 at St. Mary & St. Joseph Catholic Church in Iron Mountain. He served as a Eucharistic Minister at the church for many years. In retirement, he did yard work and snow removal for many people. He enjoyed playing cards with the Monday night poker club for almost 40 years. Paul also had an interest in trying to “hit it big” metal detecting, browsing antiques and making trips to the casino. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Betty; two daughters, Michele (Tucker) York of Kalamazoo and Angela Hudson (fiance`, Greg Davis, Jr.) of Green Bay; a son, Todd (Kelly) Gingrass of Iron Mountain; three grandchildren, Taylor Hudson and Abram & Aurelia Gingrass; and several nieces and nephews. Paul was preceded in death by two brothers, Jack and Bob Gingrass and two sisters, Sally Duffy and Carol Juhl. Visitation will be held on Monday from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at St. Mary & St. Joseph Catholic Church in Iron Mountain. A memorial mass will follow at 1:00 pm at the church. Fr. Daniel Zaloga and Deacon Don Christy will officiate. There will then be a lunch gathering for all family and friends in the church hall following the service. Burial will be in Iron Mountain Cemetery Park. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established in his memory. Condolences to the family of Paul J. Gingrass can be expressed online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home with the arrangements.

Paul J. Gingrass Jr.

January 25, 1930 - March 12, 2014