Charles Gerald Jehnzen September 24, 1919 - March 19, 2017 He lived. He Died. You had to know him. The only child of Helen (Storey) and Edward B. Jehnzen lived all but about fifteen years on the farm outside of Rodney which nourished his soul and where he drew his last breath. As a young man he was known as Whitey because of his blond hair. He was known as a County Commissioner for a few years. He was known as a compassionate and benevolent teacher and mentor of educations, especially for the endowments he established for Girls Basketball and Diesel Mechanics at Ferris. He was known as a Christian man who prayed often. He was known as a Union man and a Democrat. He was known as a man who worked hard, played hard, and loved to sing and dance. He was known as the "Dirt Merchant" selling and delivering dirt well into his eighties. He was known as Dad and Grandpa. Mostly he was known as Charley. He married Verna Prowant in 1942, who blessed him with five daughters, three who survive to celebrate his life; Beth (Dale) Boehs of Rodney, Michigan; Charleen Stroup of Sebring Florida; and Margaret Black, of Waters, Michigan. Gwen and Claire predeceased him, as did his wife, Verna. Three grandchildren carry on his creativity; Steve (Naomi) Black, Guy Black and Amy (Wayne) Nahabedian; and five great grandchildren, Benjamin Clifton, Trent Black, Zoe and Emily Nahabedian and Gideon Black. A Funeral service will be held at Daggett - Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids, Michigan on Saturday, March 25, 2017 at 3:00 p.m. to celebrate his unique soul and beloved memory. Burial will take place at Martiny Township Cemetery following the funeral. The family will greet friends two hours prior to services (from 1:00 p.m. to service at 3:00 p.m.) on Saturday. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Great Lakes Caring Hospice, 900 Cooper Street, Jackson, MI 49202-3398 or your favorite charity is suggested. Share a memory or condolence with the family at the guestbook tab at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com Funeral Service Saturday, March 25, 2017 03:00 PM Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home 13985 Northland Drive Big Rapids,MI 49307