Starting college at age 27; married with 2 young children, he earned 3 university degrees at UMKC, the highest being EdS in Counseling and Guidance. He was a guidance counselor at Park Hill High School, department chairman for 4 years, founder of the Natural Helpers, Military Liaison & retired from PHHS after 26 years.
Serving in numerous professional associations & organizations for the Blind, including an appointment by Gov. Carnahan, Public Relations Chair for the MO Council of the Blind and National Board member & American Council of the Blind officer for five years. At the age of 67 he became SCUBA certified. He received his Advanced certificate to 130 feet at age 71, in Hawaii.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Rick.
Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Edna; daughters, Zoan (Dave) and Susan (Mike); his sister, Janne; sisters-in-law, Jessie and Marietta; grandkids, Jillian, Lauren (Andrew), Alee, Valentina, and Cody.