Gerry Edward Messmer

Gerry Edward Messmer passed away on Monday, April 20, 2026

He is survived by his wife Beth Mitchell Messmer; brother Bob Messmer, children Brian Messmer, Brent Messmer (Amy), Robert Hutchison (Aniko). Grandchildren Nick and Melanie Messmer, Wyatt, Harper, Saige, and Sawyer Hutchison, great grandchild James Hutchison Jr. Late James Mitchell Hutchison. Numerous nieces, nephews and dear friends. Canine buddies Toby (booger) and Peanut (nut mutt).

Preceded in death by parents Woodrow and Mary Jane Messmer and step mother Margaret Messmer, brothers Jim and Don Messmer.

Gerry was born February 7, 1942 in Hammond IN and was a 1960 Graduate of Griffith High School.

He received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology from Purdue University and Masters in Geology from Indiana University. He taught earth science at Highland Jr High school, then Highland High school until 1977. He worked at several machine shops until he retired.

He received most valuable player award in baseball his sophomore year while attending Purdue/Calumet campus.

He enjoyed woodworking and made most of the furniture in our Griffith home.

He enjoyed karaoke and won the first cellphone we had -even though he never became comfortable using a cell phone. He went on a failed river raft trip, and played league softball.

He bowled at Plaza Lanes in Highland, played practical jokes, and on the Saturday night mixed league won the league two consecutive years.

Loved camping – especially in the bluegrass area at the Earl Park Fall festival – where we attended for 30+ years and made wonderful lifelong friends.

Gerry was a loving husband, son, brother, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend and will be missed by all whose lives he touched.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday April 29, 2026 from 1:30 pm to 5:00 pm with short service at 5:00 pm at Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 8941 Kleinman Road (one block south of Ridge Road) Highland, IN, 46322.

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