Gerald "Duke" Gielczyk, age 72, of Manistee, passed away on 3/27/2026.

Born on May 7, 1953, to Frank and Margaret "Dolly" (Marzinski) Gielczyk, he was a lifelong member of the Manistee community and a 1971 graduate of Manistee Catholic High School. On May 25, 1974, he married Linda Tetsworth, beginning a partnership that spanned decades and was centered on family.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Jason (Anne) Gielczyk and Jessica (Dan Schultz) Gielczyk, and by his beloved grandsons, Ty and Eli Gielczyk, who were truly the pride and joy of his life. He rarely missed an opportunity to cheer them on, whether in the classroom or on the field, and spoke often—and proudly—of their accomplishments, character, and bright futures. Nothing brought him greater happiness than being present for their milestones and sharing in their successes.

He is also survived by his siblings, Carol Anderson, Mary Johnson, Karen (Phil) Snyder, Ken (Chris) Gielczyk, and Jane (Kully) Kolanowski; his brothers in-law, Len (Julie) Tetsworth, Phil Tetsworth, and Tom (Charlotte) Tetsworth and sister-in-law Marilyn Tetsworth; as well as many nieces and nephews, neighbors, and friends who will remember him fondly.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his in-laws, Leonard and Alice Tetsworth; his brother, Ronald Gielczyk; brothers-in-law Jim Anderson, Steve Johnson, and Al Tetsworth; and sisters-in-law Gloria Gielczyk and Julie Tetsworth.

He enjoyed spending time outdoors hunting and fishing and was a devoted fan of the Detroit Lions and Detroit Tigers. His greatest joy, however, was always his family—especially his grandsons, whose lives he followed closely and celebrated wholeheartedly.

He began his working years at Wahr Hardware while still in high school, later working at Century Boat, and went on to dedicate 41 years to Packaging Corporation of America (PCA), where he was known for his strong work ethic and commitment before retiring in 2018.

A life well lived, defined by dedication to family, larger than life personality, hard work, and quiet pride, he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Jerry was laid to rest on Saturday, April 4, 2026 at Mt Carmel Cemetery in Manistee at 1:00 P.M. with private graveside services led by Rev. James Bearss and Rev. Shabu Kunnathoor officiating.

Those wishing to remember Duke, are asked to consider a donation in his name, to the Manistee County Sport Fishing Association. for the Kids Fish Day. P.O. Box 98, Manistee, Michigan 49660

The Herbert Funeral Home of Manistee was in charge of funeral arrangements.