Gilbert Jerome (Jerry) Oppen of Chandler, Arizona passed away on Monday, September 26, 2022, at the age of 88. After several months of declining health, Jerry died peacefully with his daughter Cyndi by his side.
Jerry was born in Winchester Idaho on January 10, 1934, to father Gilbert Gunnar Oppen and mother Bessie May Rogers Oppen. The 10th of 6 brothers and 5 sisters.
He enlisted in the Army at the age 18 and served in the Korean war and received several medals including Good Conduct Medal, Marksman (Carbine), Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, and National Defense Service Medal. He retired as Senior Master Sargent in the Air National Guard with many commendations and medals.
His lifetime work was in telecommunication. He started his career with Michigan Bell and retired from AT&T. He loved to build things and do things with his hands. He re-built an old Willy’s jeep he dragged home from a hunting trip in Michigan. He loved guns and won numerous awards for marksmanship. He also built guns and packed his own ammunition. He loved riding his motorcycle and would look for any excuse to take it on a trip.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and siblings. He is survived by his children Onalee R Pallas, Lora E Baker and Cyndi L Luciano; grandchildren Michael, Heidi, Amy, Laura, Jennifer, Jessica, and Brian; several great-grandchildren, and too many nieces and nephews to count.
A graveside service will be planned at Tahoma Cemetery in Yakima, Washington, date to be determined.
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