Jerod Guoan

Jerod Michael Guoan, at 23, passed away on June 6th, 2026 in Gladwin, MI. He was born on September 5, 2002, in West Branch to Luke and Alissa (Mier) Guoan. Jerod had a passion for the outdoors and loved sharing his experiences with others. He approached life with a fearless spirit and a genuine smile on his face.

From a young age, Jerod lived an active life and enjoyed endurance activities, outdoor adventures, and riding anything with a motor, especially dirt bikes and four-wheelers. He started his motorsports adventures joining his dad ATV trail riding and, despite his dads wishes, developed a love for dirt bikes as well. His ATV racing included hare scramble races, motocross racing, oval dirt racing, TT dirt racing, and oval ice racing/GP. His ice racing consisted of many twilight early mornings and late nights. Last year he had the opportunity to race against both of his siblings for the first time. Though competitive by nature, nothing made him happier than seeing them succeed.

He traveled throughout the midwest with his family to race the national ATV MX Championship series. At times he raced nationals against his little brother (Parker). He was determined to finish first but was always on the lookout for Parker and would immediately stop if there were any serious issues. Last year, he was thrilled when his sister (Graycin) finally stopped ignoring his nagging and decided to give ATV racing a try. His excitement grew when he learned she shared the enthusiasm for the sport. Jerod made it very clear he was her biggest fan.The pure joy from sharing his passion with his siblings will never be lost.

Jerod was determined to stay active no matter what the weather. He pursued many other hobbies such as boating, fly fishing, mountain biking, running, snow boarding, slalom skiing, and random arm wrestling competitions. He made side quests with his friends and spent many hours riding the track behind his home. He loved taking his boat out with friends and family, especially taking his sister (Graycin) water skiing. He had a desire to share his interests and was determined to find someone to join him in his adventures.

He was involved with all aspects of the family trucking business (JPG Trucking). He supported and was side by side with his dad through all stages of building the business. The moment he turned 18, he got his CDL, and he ran a self-loader log truck for several years. He became a natural at running the equipment and even impressed his great-grandfather, who had been a logger for several decades. Jerod took pride in his work and always wanted to do his best. No matter how long the day or how challenging the weather, he always found time to spend with his siblings and friends each evening. Through determination and hard work, he developed a strong work ethic that enabled him to pursue the many activities and adventures he loved.

He bought a pick-up truck shortly after high school and had treated that as a prized possession. It was the first large item that he was able to purchase on his own, and he was determined that it was going to last forever. He was very particular with how his things were taken care of and was meticulous on keeping them clean. He took pride in his work and his accomplishments.

Jerod graduated from Gladwin High School in 2020, during the statewide shut-down. Although his education was temporarily delayed, he resumed his academic journey in the spring of 2025 by enrolling in the Forestry program at Gogebic Community College. He lived in the dorms supporting himself by log truck driving while attending college full-time. Jerod made friends with several people during his one year at Gogebic, and was grateful for how quickly Ironwood embraced him.

Jerod had an infectious smile and almost took it as a challenge to find a way to get others to smile. He was full of energy. He felt strongly that you wave when you see a friendly face and when passing in the car at the corner. He routinely honked the log truck horn through town and as he drove into the driveway at the end of the day.

Jerod will be deeply missed. He is survived by his parents Luke and Alissa Guoan (Mier); brother, Parker; sister, Graycin; grandparents Mike and Shelly Guoan; Grandma Peggy; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Funeral services will take place on Thursday, June 11, 2026 at 1:00 P.M. at his home at 3636 Eagleson Road, Gladwin, MI 48624. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 10, 2026 from 3:00-8:00 P.M. at Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home in Gladwin. Arrangements are in the care of Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home. www.hallkokotovichfuneralhome.com