Gerald Harry Perry

Salem - Gerald Harry Perry of Salem, OR at 103 yrs old passed to his heavenly home on January 15, 2018. He is survived by his Australian wife of 14 yrs Joan Harmsen, daughters Carolyn Newell and Rosalie Perry, grandson Mark Newell, and 5 step-children / 9 step-grandchildren. His deceased wife of 63 yrs Inez Perry (whose mother from Finland was a Titanic survivor) preceded him in 2001. Jerry was born in Portland, OR to Louis and Minnie Perry and had a brother Francis, all deceased.

Jerry attended Lewis and Clark College for 2 yrs. He then worked in Portland and Salem as a dry cleaning salesman and apartment manager. He was drafted into the Navy for 2 yrs, stateside. About 20 yrs he and Inez hosted numerous foreign tourists. He traveled to Europe, Australia, Israel/Egypt, Mediterranean & Caribbean, around South America, Hawaii, Japan, China. For years Jerry played with Rose City Banjoliers and Northwest Banjo Band. He was a member of the Nazarene Church, plus a diligent participant at the Keizer Sr. Center, Courthouse spa, and in the Cherry City Cloggers in his 80s -- which all kept him fit to 101! Jerry was known for his energetic positive personality, love of people, ready smile, encouragement, generosity and detailed memory.

Memorial Service to be held at Salem First Church of Nazarene on February 9 at 2 pm. Burial at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, OR. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Salem Union Gospel Mission would be appreciated.

Services under the direction of Howell Edwards Doerksen with Rigdon-Ransom Funeral Directors.