Gerald L. Poland II

Gerald L. Poland II, 56, of Grafton, died February. 23, 2024 surrounded by his family, at University Hospitals, Elyria Medical Center after battling cancer for 6 months.  Jer, as he was known, was born May 18, 1967 in Fairview Park and lived in California, Florida and Ohio during his lifetime. He was a 1986 graduate of Elyria High School and also Lorain County Joint Vocational School, where he studied air conditioning and refrigeration. Jer was a proud member of the U.S. Navy, serving on the USS Ranger CV-61 as a MM3 and is also a shellback.  After leaving the Navy, he worked as a roofer, mechanic and a powder coater.  Jer enjoyed fishing, woodworking, jewelry making, fixing up bicycles and his pets. He also had a passion for classic cars. Most importantly, Jer had a kind heart, and it gave him great joy to use his skills to help someone in need.  He was a life member of Elyria VFW #1079.

Jerry is survived by his mother, Wanda Kovach; sister, Brenda Poland; nephews Chris (Gabby) Ostrowski and Derrick (Nicole) Poland and eight great nieces and great nephews. He also is survived by his fiancee, Debra Ward and her children, Bailey Cline and Brandon Cline. 

He was preceded in death by his father, Gerald Poland; grandmother, Velma Gibson and step-father Robert Kovach.

Military Honors will be presented in Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery, Rittman.

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