JEROME J. "JERRY" RANUS, age 75, of Valparaiso, left us to be with the angels on Wednesday, September 15, 2010. Jerry was a veteran who proudly served his country in the US Navy. After growing up in New Chicago, Jerry married the love of his life, moving to South Haven to raise his children. Jerry worked at Bethlehem Steel for 27 years. He was a member of Our Lady of Sorrows Parish, and you could always count on seeing him with a chef's hat in place serving up fish at the fish fry's. Jerry was a member of the American Legion Post 502 and was also active in the Lion's Club and the Knights of Columbus. Jerome was an avid bingo player and faithful lottery player in hopes to win "big".

Today is his day of eternal happiness, to once again walk hand in hand with the angel that went before him. Together they will be in everlasting bliss to watch over their loved ones together again. Grandpa you will forever be with us. We love you.

Jerry is lovingly survived by 3 children: Randy Ranus of Valparaiso, Gerrie (Ron) Woodard of Portage, and Tina (Rhett VanNostrand) Ranus of Phoenix, AZ; 3 siblings: Joal (Lucy) Ranus, Ronnie (Patty) Ranus, and Patricia (Eugene) Colvin, all of Phoenix, AZ; 1 brother-in-law, Ralph (Shirley) Workenaour; 3 grandchildren, Celena Woodard of Portage, Kimberly (Mark) Gronek of Kouts and Ronnie Woodard, Jr.; 4 great grandchildren: Alexis Woodard, Timothy, Kenzi and Alyssa Gronek; other loving family and friends.

Jerry was preceded in death by his loving wife of 45 years, Doris Jean Ranus and his parents, Joseph and Wanda Ranus.

Funeral services for Jerry will be Tuesday, September 21, 2010 beginning with prayers at 9:15 a.m. at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave., Portage, and then proceeding to Our Lady of Sorrows, 356 W Seven Mile Rd., Valparaiso with Rev. John J. Zemelko officiating for a 10:00am Mass of Christian Burial. Burial will follow at McCool Cemetery. A visitation for Jerry will be Monday, September 20, 2010 from 2-5 & 7-9 p.m. with a 7:00 p.m. American Legion Service at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave., Portage, (219) 762-3013 or online at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.