Gerald R. Hollenbeck

On June 19, 2025, Gerald Robert Hollenbeck Sr. passed away peacefully in his sleep at home, surrounded by his loving family. He had been in declining health for some time. Despite the devoted care of his family and his own efforts to regain strength, it was his time, and the Lord called him home.

Born on April 15, 1949, to Clyde David Hollenbeck and Dorothy Mae (Rathbone) Hollenbeck, Jerry was one of six children. As a boy, he was full of energy and mischief, always getting into the kinds of adventures young boys often do. He had a lifelong love of fishing, hunting, and motorcycles.

In 1969, seeking a path forward, Jerry enlisted in the United States Army and served in Vietnam. He returned home in 1970 with an Honorable Discharge. Later in life, he was honored to participate in the Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., where he visited the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall.

Jerry married Beverly Prine, and together they had his only child, Gerald Robert Hollenbeck Jr. Though their marriage was short-lived and ended in divorce, Jerry later found lasting love with his late wife, Joan Gatlin. They shared 43 years together. While they had no children together, Joan had six from a previous marriage, and Jerry had his son.

Jerry enjoyed a long career as a truck driver, proudly going by the handle “Running Bear.” He was also involved with motorcycle clubs and formed a close friendship with his neighbor, Steve Zitrin, after purchasing his home.

He cherished time spent with his nieces and nephews and found great joy in reconnecting with his son later in life. A visit to Georgia to spend time with his son and family brought him immense happiness. Upon returning to Bainbridge, New York, Jerry found it increasingly difficult to live alone. He was deeply proud when his son and family selflessly moved to care for him in his final years. Jerry took great comfort in knowing the kind of man his son had become.

Jerry is survived by his son, Gerald Robert Hollenbeck Jr.; daughter-in-law, Angela Reinhardt; and grandson, Brandon. He is also survived by his siblings, Roger Hollenbeck, Joyce Hollenbeck, and Marion Champion, as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Joan; his siblings, Howard, Dolly, and Hazle; and his cherished dogs, Rain and Zarah.

Jerry will be dearly missed.