Gerald Walter Bliven

Jerry, a long time Modesto, California resident passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family. Jerry was born in Grinnell, Iowa on June 13, 1935. He later moved to the Ceres/Turlock area in California as a youth with his parents and brother. After graduating from high school, Jerry enlisted into the United States Coast Guard where he proudly served his country from 1953 to 1957. During his enlistment in the military, Jerry married his beloved wife Ellie Bliven. After completion of his military duty in the bay area, Jerry and Ellie moved back to Modesto to complete his college education and raise three children.

After college graduation, Jerry was employed for 28 years as a Branch Manager for Diamond Laboratories/Syntex Corporation, specializing in Veterinary pharmaceutical sales. In 1990, Jerry started, owned and operated his own business (Pak Mail) for 9 years until he decided to retire. After retirement, Jerry and Ellie were able to travel and enjoy various trips throughout the world and were always excited to share their photos and memories with the family. Jerry enjoyed many outdoor activities and sporting events, which included coaching little league baseball, piloting his houseboat (The Huckleberry) along with his true passion for the game of golf where he made many friends.

Jerry’s honesty, humor, kindness, good values, commitment to family and simplistic views of life will be greatly missed by all those who knew him. Jerry is preceded in death by his wife of 69 years Ellie Bliven, parents George and Edith Bliven and brother Kenneth Bliven. Jerry is survived by his son Paul Bliven (Lisa), son Larry Bliven, son Michael Bliven and granddaughter Kallie Heisler (Joel).

Remembrances may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

A graveside service for Jerry will be held on Friday, August 30, 2024 beginning at 11:00 a.m. at Lakewood Memorial park located at 900 Santa Fe Avenue, Hughson, California 95326.