Michael R. Gerrits, of East Greenville, PA, formerly of Appleton, fought a hard battle against cancer but, unfortunately, lost that battle on Tuesday, July 25, 2017. Mike was born in Appleton on May 7, 1951 to Eugene and Lois (Schabo) Gerrits. He attended St. Joseph School and graduated from Appleton West. Mike was an Army Vietnam veteran. On March 9, 1974 he married Linda Paulson at St. Joseph Church. Together, they resided in East Greenville, PA for the last 30 years. He worked at Global Advanced Metals. His greatest love was for his family. Mike loved to be with them whenever he could. He always made time to play with his grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, no matter how tired he was during his illness. Mike was an avid reader and also enjoyed Texas Holdem, golf and bowling

Mike leaves behind his wife of 43 years, Linda; daughter, Michelle (John) Reynolds; son, Christopher (Heather) Gerrits; the joys of his life, his grandchildren: Aiden and Sidney Gerrits; mother, Lois Gerrits; brothers and sisters: Diane (Ken) Mader, Ronald (Karen), Richard, Dennis (Bobbie), Barb Kasper and Susan (Glen) Tellock; and brothers and sisters-in-law: Ruth (Greg) Erickson, Michael Paulson, Louise Redzinski and Sharon Paulson. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

Mike was preceded in death by his father, Eugene; father and mother-in-law, Leslie and Ruth (Winter) Paulson; brothers and sisters-in-law: Noreen (Kirk) Gerrits, Mark Grishaber, Leslie Paulson Jr., Larry (Linda) Madson and Jerry Redzinski; and niece Lisa Witt.

Visitation will be held Friday, July 28, 2017 at O'CONNELL FUNERAL HOME (1776 E. Main St. Little Chute) beginning at 4:00 p.m. until the time of Funeral at 6:00 p.m. Deacon CF Dedman will officiate. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Affinity Hospice in Michael's name.

Mike's family would like to thank the staff at Affinity Hospice, especially Toni, for their exceptional care.