Gerald "Gerry" William Swank

Gerald William Swank, (Jerry,) was born to William Swank and Evelyn May Swank in Washington D.C., on October 1, 1932. Jerry's father worked as a policeman in Washington, D.C. Jerry’s mother was employed as a secretary for a General in the Defense Department at the Pentagon. Jerry had one beloved brother, Dr. Wayne Swank.

Jerry graduated from Ococgan High School in 1949 entering the University of West Virginia on a full athletic scholarship in his chosen sport of football. Early in life, football was one of Jerry’s favorite passions and remained so, attending many high school and college games with friends and family. Jerry belonged to the R.O.T.C and after graduating from

College in West Virginia with a Forestry Degree, Jerry joined the Air Force Reserves and later was deployed for active duty. Jerry was honorably discharged April 1, 1971, after achieving the rank of Captain.

Following his service to this great country, Jerry pursued the job he had prepared for in college, the job he had dreamed of and the job for which he dedicated his life and his passion, to work for the U.S.Forest Service. Jerry was assigned to the Ochoco National Forest in Prineville, Oregon. During his college years, Jerry spent his summers working in the Redwoods of California, working for the U.S. Forest Service. Later, Jerry worked in the Seattle and Portland offices and retired in 1990, following 37 years of dedicated service having achieved the position of Regional Hydrologist.

Jerry was a loving father, a caring husband, a wonderful stepfather and grandfather. Jerry was a man who loved his family, loved his friends and was a best friend to all who were blessed with his friendship. Jerry was an open book. He was a man who loved people,loved animals, loved the big outdoors and always enjoyed hunting, fishing and hiking in all that nature had to offer. Jerry passed his love of nature to his children and grandchildren and they are forever grateful for their memories with Jerry in the great outdoors.

Jerry is survived by his three beautiful daughters: Cheryl Swank, Susan Swank and Judy Swank. Jerry’s brother Dr. Wayne and wife Roberta Swank and his step brother William Menne and wife Cindy will miss him dearly.

On June 28,1980, Jerry was remarried to the love of his life, Jean Nelson. Jean and Jerry were able to celebrate their 30th anniversary last year with many friends and their beloved family, many who traveled far and wide to observe that special occasion with them. Of all of the loves and passions in his life, Jean was always number one with him.

Jerry received the blessing of a large family after marrying Jean. Jerry gained three step-children in the marriage, Monica Nelson, Curt Nelson, Donmarie Schultz, and their spouses Janet Nelson and Jody Schultz. Jerry’s grandchildren include Ian Newby, Amie Alekian and husband Greg, Eric Newby, Kevin Nelson, Sarah Nelson, Alexa Nelson, Dillon Schultz, Sawyer Schultz, and great grand children Lily and Rafi Alekian. His grandchildren and great grandchildren were the light of his life and he cherished every one of them.

Jerry’s many sisters and brothers-in-law include Gary and Marie Smith, Mike and Kameyo Smith, Shelda and Neil

Zander, Marla and Bill Zickgraf, Diane and Brent Little, Gail and Virgil Marshall, as well as many nieces and nephews. Jerry was so very proud of his many relatives and enjoyed having a large and loving family.

Jerry Swank was a man loved by many friends and all of his family. Jerry will be deeply missed by all who were honored to know him.