After a short stay at Chandler House Memory Care Jerry died at Cottage in the Meadow on Sunday afternoon on the 15th of January, 2023.

He was 93 years old and had a good and varied life. His early youth was spent in Douglas, Arizona where he loved the desert and mountains. Jerry had one younger brother and a half-brother, both died in mid-life. He moved to Phoenix where he went to college and then joined the US Air Force. As a navigator he flew in C-124 aircraft to many countries.

While in New Zealand he met Rietje, his future wife. Rietje's brother Walt was a pilot and liaison officer in the New Zealand Air Force and Jerry was then also a liaison officer for the US Air Force. After a press meeting, brother Walt invited Jerry for afternoon tea to his home where Jerry met Rietje. After marriage they were happy to welcome two sons, Walter and Erik to their family.

Before leaving the Air Force he earned his Masters in Secondary Education. Upon retirement from the Air Force Jerry taught English and History in Scottsdale, Arizona. In 1979 the family moved to Yakima to escape the hot climate of Phoenix. Jerry worked at Yakima Specialties as a counselor until retirement.

Jerry was a people-person. He had a great sense of humor, loved history, jazz and classical music. He loved the Yakima Symphony and attended all the concerts. He also was a very good father. Walt, Erik and he had endless discussions about history and flying. His grandchildren, Kerynica, Konnor, Zachary and Zia loved their Opa and his booming laugh. As a family many trips were made to the Netherlands to visit Rietje's family where Jerry was loved and felt at home.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 65 years, two sons, their wives Lynn and Pam, and four grandchildren. Jerry was so proud of them.

We will gather for a Remembrance with family and friends at the Apple Tree Restaurant on April 1, 2023 from 2 pm to 4:30 pm where condolences and memories can be shared.