Gerald Lee “Jerry” Delling

Celebrating the Life of Gerald Lee “Jerry” Delling.

Gerald Lee “Jerry” Delling passed away peacefully at the age of 91 on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at Meadow Brook Medical Care Facility in Bellaire.

Jerry’s journey began on June 6, 1935, in Birmingham, Michigan, where he was born at home to Harvey Edwin and Norma Delling. A proud 1953 graduate of Farmington High School, Jerry immediately felt the call to serve his country, enrolling in the United States Navy. He served with distinction aboard the destroyer USS Myles C Fox until his honorable discharge in September 1957.

Upon returning to civilian life, Jerry dedicated himself to education. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from Olivet College in 1961 and began a long, impactful career as a teacher and coach. While his career started in Colon and Laingsburg, it was in Mancelona — where he moved in 1963 — that he truly established his legacy. 

Coaching football was Jerry’s true passion, and his influence reached far beyond the yard lines of the gridiron. Over the decades, he mentored countless young athletes, not only as the head football coach but also through coaching track, basketball, baseball and wrestling. In the later years of his career, he continued his service to the school as the athletic director, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of generations of students.

In 1967, Jerry began the most important chapter of his life when he married Lynne Giannestras. Together, they built a beautiful life and welcomed their son, Scot Lee Delling, in1968. Even after retiring from education, Jerry’s energetic spirit led him to a successful second career in real estate alongside Lynne in Bellaire, a profession he enjoyed until his final retirement in 2018.

Jerry’s legacy of hard work and kindness lives on through his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Lynne, and his son, Scot (Dawn Rollins Delling). He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Donna Lilian Grubbs, and his brother Duane Harvey Delling.

In honor of Jerry’s wishes, a private ceremony will be held for the immediate family at a later date. His family invites those who knew him to celebrate his memory by remembering the lessons he taught on the field and in the classroom: lessons of perseverance, teamwork, and heart.

Arrangements are in the care of the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook at  www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.