Gerald "Jerry" C. Musselman

Lake City - Gerald "Jerry" Charles Musselman, of Caldwell Township and lifelong resident of the area, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, July 20, 2026 at his home. A life of 69 years with one foot on the gas pedal and his heart firmly in the driver’s seat.

Jerry was born on April 13, 1957, in Cadillac, MI to Gerald A. and Norma J. (Hooker) Musselman. He was raised by his mother and Francis Musselman following the unfortunate and untimely death of his father when Jerry was just an infant.  

A true automobile enthusiast, he had a special admiration for muscle cars. It only makes sense that 49 years ago while cruising the streets of Cadillac, Jerry in his blue 1975 Oldsmobile Cutlass would ask Gail Aten in her orange 1974 Mercury Capri to "roll with me". That first cruise, to a stop at The Wayside Chapel in California on March 12, 1983 was the start of 43 years of marriage. Jerry worked as a truck driver for many years, several of which Gail was by his side running cross country, until eventually staying more local and creating a wonderful career driving for Housler Sawmill.  He recently retired following 30+ years with the Housler family. 

Over the years, his passion for cool cars continued. He proudly owned several vehicles, including a couple of Corvettes and his treasured Hot Wheels Camaro, each one carrying its own stories, memories, and countless hours of polishing to make them shine. Whether he was out for a cruise with Gail or simply admiring a beautifully restored classic, his passion for cars was unmistakable.

In his younger years, he embraced the thrill of speed by racing the dirt track at Merritt Speedway, where his competitive spirit and love of driving came alive. That same excitement followed him throughout his life as a devoted NASCAR fan. Race day often meant cheering for the legendary Dale Earnhardt, whose determination and fearless spirit he admired.  For Jerry, every drive was an opportunity to enjoy life’s simple pleasures with Gail and those he loved most. Yet, not every cruise was on pavement as he could often be found riding the trails in the Polaris RZR, horseback riding, 4x4’s or snowmobiling. Jerry was known for blowing huge snow piles in the winter that he would turn into a sledding hill and sculptures for the kids to play on.

Jerry was liked/loved by all! With a quick wit and playful sense of humor, he had a remarkable gift of making everyone around him smile and feel welcome. He was the one who was always there to listen, offer advice, lend a helping hand, or simply share a laugh when it was needed most.  His legacy will live on every time a muscle car rumbles to life, a chuckle is heard after a smart remark, that song comes on the radio, or a scenic drive that reminds us that sometimes the greatest destination is simply time spent together.  The loss of Jerry will leave a hole in the hearts of all that knew and loved him.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Gail Musselman and dog Stella of Lake City; his four siblings, Frank (Julie) Musselman, Julie (Brian) Richards, Tracy Mouw (Denny Werthman), Tanya (Walt) Oram; close friend, Pat (Skeeter) Kline; his in-laws, Linda (Robert) Durant, Tim (Dawn) Aten, Ken Thomas; many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald Musselman, Norma Musselman, and Francis Musselman; baby brother, Rodney Musselman; his niece, Alyssa Musselman; his father and mother in-law, Justin and Beverly Aten; and sister in-law, Janet Aten.

Please join us for a time to remember Jerry on July 25, 2026 at the Lake Township Hall on Kelly Road from 3 until 5pm.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Missaukee County Humane Society.  Condolences and memories may be shared with the family online at www.HoldshipFuneralHomes.com 

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