Jerry was born on November 26, 1935 in Long Beach, CA. Jerry was a music major in college and then drafted in the army where he played in the West Point band. While stationed in Germany, Jerry drove the bus and played in the band. His favorite memory might be returning home with a tomato red VW Bug! Jerry loved playing music. He played numerous symphonic bands but loved playing the tuba in the Octoberfest most of all.
Jerry was married to Lila, his high school sweetheart, for forty-six years. They had one daughter, Karen. Jerry moved his family to Bear Bear Lake where he worked as the BVUSD mechanic and bus driver. Jerry also worked on VW’s out of his home.
Jerry married Irene Benson eleven years ago. They enjoyed being retired, camping, playing games and spoiling their grandchildren. Jerry is survived by his wife; Irene, daughter; Karen, brother; Dick (and wife Pricilla), nieces; Becky, Beth and Belinda, stepdaughter; Beth (and husband Kevin), and stepson; Neal (and wife Charity). He is also survived by his five grandchildren; Blaze, Sophie, Leah, Phoenix, and Isaiah.
Jerry lost his fight with esophageal cancer on November 28, 2017. He will be deeply missed by all who came in contact with him as Jerry never met a stranger. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bear Valley Community Church or Big Bear Hospice.
A memorial service will be held at Community Church Big Bear on Saturday December 9, 2017 at 10:30am.
2 comments:
We have known Jerry and Irene for the past ten years. We met in Sunday school at Community Church. It was always fun to be with Jerry. He had a great sense of humor, a quick smile and twinkle in his eye. He was a good friend and will be missed. Norma and Bob Grimes
Wish I could be at the memorial today but unable to attend. I send my love. I am so happy for Irene and Jerry to have been able to spend some years together, even though the time was too short. RIP Jerry. You will live on through the happy memories that were formed.
Sonja Kawa
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