Gerald Sack

On August 21st, Gerald Vincent Sack passed away in a manner that only he could have scripted: full of smiles on a bike tour in Blaye, France, while on vacation with the love of his life-his wife of 54 years-Mary Ann and close family friends. Gerry was 82 years old.

Gerry was born on March 8th 1942, and grew up in Cincinnati, the son of Carl and Betty Sack, and brother to Anne and Carolyn. He attended Xavier High School and continued on to Xavier University and the University of Cincinnati. Gerry’s contrarian attitude and his thirst for adventure led him to take the “road less traveled” and he joined the Peace Corps in 1965, for a two year assignment as a teacher in Ghion, Ethiopia. This experience imparted a global perspective, compassion for the marginalized, and primed him for a life filled with adventure. After the Peace Corps, Gerry received his law degree from the University of Cincinnati and spent his career at the IRS. After his retirement, he worked at SOME (So Others Might Eat) in the maintenance department for several years.

Gerry married Mary Ann Vernarsky in 1970, and quickly established a “village” atmosphere in a neighborhood in Northern Virginia where they began their family and developed many cherished lifelong friendships. The relationships, support, and joy that came from this “village” was highly impactful to Gerry’s life. Raising three children: Michelle, Jeff, and Ann Marie, was a focus for Gerry. He never missed an opportunity to support his kids from the countless hours attending sporting events, editing book reports, and imparting his positivity in everything they engaged in.

His love for travel took him to 25 different countries with Mary Ann, epic adventures in Alaska, capsizing sailboats in Glen Lake Michigan, and rolling four wheelers at the Nathe Ranch in Montana.

Gerry loved to bike. It made him so happy. He loved that cycling gave him a unique perspective, noticing things he never had seen before. It was one of his favorite ways to explore new places.

More than anything else, Gerry loved spending time with his wife, Mary Ann, his children and grandchildren. He loved being silly, witty, and just having fun with all seven grandkids - Cassidy, Gillian, Sienna, Zachary, Darby, Bea and Greta. Gerry loved his life, his family and friends, and sharing stories and smiles with others. He will be deeply missed by those fortunate enough to have known him.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to one of the following charities:

Our Lady Queen of Peace Food Bank: https://membership.faithdirect.net/givenow/VA271/12857

Phoenix Bikes in Arlington, VA: https://www.phoenixbikes.org/donate/