Gerald D. Decker

Decker, Gerald D. Gerald D. Decker, 81, of Lincoln, NE, died Monday, December 29, 2014 at home. The son of Alfred and Roslyn Decker, Jerry was born October 17, 1933 in Alliance, NE. He attended McCook Community College, Kearney State College and UNL earning a Doctorate in Education. Jerry spent 3 years with the Nebraska Department of Education and over 34 years in elementary education, including 21 years with the Lincoln Public Schools. In 1992, he was honored as the National Distinguished Elementary Principal of the Year of the State of Nebraska. Jerry was united in marriage with Mary Phillipson in 1954. After his service in the United States Air Force, they made their home in Nebraska. He was involved in many civic and professional organizations, taking both support and leadership roles. In Lincoln, Jerry was known as the Teddy Bear Principle - with his office filled with stuffed teddy bears. Surviving are his wife, Mary Decker of Lincoln, son Mike & Brenda Decker of Lincoln, daughter Carol & Bill Weaver of Geneva, granddaughters Tricia Crary-Adkins (Tim), Melanie Hughes, Ann Wynegar (Justan) and Amy Bennett (Justin), grandsons, Jason Decker (Alysha) and Jim Weaver (JC), and fifteen great grandchildren. Also surviving are his sister, Jean Decker, nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, step mother, and 3 brothers. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, 11 a.m., January 5, 2015 at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church in Lincoln with uncle Rev. Raymond Decker and Rev. Caleb La Rue officiating. The rosary will be recited Sunday, 7 p.m. at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church. Cremation, no visitation. In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to St. John the Apostle Catholic Church, LPS Foundation or UNL Foundation.