August 15, 2025

Beloved Matriarch Geraldine Kloock Jackson Passes Away

News Summary

Geraldine “Gerry” Rose Kloock Jackson, a cherished member of the Lake Orion community, passed away peacefully at home at the age of 99. An influential figure who prioritized family and community engagement, Gerry was known for her nurturing spirit, commitment to family traditions, and hospitality. Her dedication to her daughters and friendly gatherings made her a beloved matriarch. Donations in her memory can be made to local charities as plans for a Celebration of Life are underway.

Lake Orion, MI – Geraldine “Gerry” Rose Kloock Jackson, a beloved matriarch and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully at home on August 7, 2025, surrounded by her daughters. She was 99 years old, born on February 6, 1926, in Detroit, Michigan.

Gerry was the daughter of Earl and Emma Kloock and spent her childhood in Detroit. After graduating from Denby High School, she began her career as an usherette at the Vogue Theater and later served as a payroll administrator for Brinks Armored Car. Her life took a significant turn during World War II when her brother Richard introduced her to his Army buddy Osie, whom she married in June of 1947.

Throughout her life, family and home were Gerry’s top priorities. She dedicated herself to raising her daughters, Linda, Wendy, and Carol, while also participating actively in the local school and Girl Scout communities. Gerry was known for her commitment to family traditions, such as taking horseback riding lessons with her daughters to help them earn the Girl Scout “Horsewoman Badge.” Her nurturing spirit and love for communication were evident as she frequently kept in touch with friends through cards, letters, and phone calls.

In addition to her immediate family, Gerry opened her home to exchange students from various countries, including Wilma from South Africa, Olle from Sweden, and Luz from Colombia, enriching her daughters’ high school experiences. She was also famous for her old-world Christmas cookie recipes, which she used to bake along with her family during the holiday season.

Travel was another passion shared between Gerry and Osie, as they enjoyed visiting their daughters and exploring different parts of the world, including France, England, Baja California, Hawaii, and Northern California.

Gerry’s warm and inviting home made it a popular gathering place for friends and family. She maintained friendships with many, including centenarian Marjorie Colburn, who passed away at 103 the previous year. Gerry is survived by her daughters, Linda (Robert Atkinson), Wendy, and Carol, and her granddaughter, Lani Gordon (Larkin Carey). She is preceded in death by her husband Osie and brothers Earl, Richard, and Kenneth.

In her memory, donations can be made to Hospice of Michigan, Forgotten Harvest, and the American Heart Association. Plans are currently underway for a Celebration of Life event, with more details to be announced soon. Arrangements are being handled by Modetz Funeral Home in Orion, where online tributes can be made on their website.