As received from the Jacobson Funeral Home. If you have questions about, or potential corrections to the content, please contact the funeral home directly.
Gerald P. Niemi, age 59, of L’Anse, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Thursday, May 15, 2025.
Gerald was born on September 9, 1965, in L’Anse to Gerald and Sharon (Reed) Niemi. He graduated from L’Anse High School in 1984 and went on to earn his certification in Heavy Equipment Service Technology from Northern Michigan University in 1985.
During his high school years, Gerald began working alongside his grandfather, Melvin Reed, at Reed’s Marine, where he apprenticed in marine equipment repair—an interest that became a lifelong passion. He later worked as a skilled machinist at both Pettibone Cylinder Plant and Calumet Machine, and most recently was employed in maintenance at the Ojibwa Casino. Throughout his career, Gerald continued to freelance in marine repair, particularly in-board and out-board engine work.
Gerald was an avid outdoorsman who loved fishing, hunting, and spending time at the family farm in Watton with his two sons. One of his greatest joys in recent years was spending time with his two granddaughters, Nyla and Noelle, whom he adored.
He is survived by his father, Gerald R. Niemi of L’Anse; brother Kevin Niemi of Beach Park, IL; sons Toby Niemi of Kenosha, WI, and Devin Niemi (Jailyn Shelifoe) of Baraga; niece Hailee Heikkinen of L’Anse; and granddaughters Nyla and Noelle Niemi. He is also remembered by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Gerald was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Sharon Ann Niemi; his son, Gerry Lee Drew Niemi; his grandparents, Tobias and Catherine Niemi and Melvin and Grace Reed; his sister, Lori Ann Niemi; and several aunts and uncles.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, May 22, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the American Legion Post 144 in L’Anse. A memorial service will take place at 11:30 a.m., officiated by Renee Eliason. The Jacobson Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Friends may sign Gerald’s guest book and share condolences online at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com.
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