Jerome Cole Lounsberry

Born November 16, 1939, in Yakima, Washington, Jerry was the son of C. Harold and Martha (Rodenbeck) Lounsberry. He grew up in Yakima with his sister, Bette, and graduated from Yakima High School in 1957.

After attending Olympic College in Bremerton, Jerry enlisted in the United States Navy in 1961. His service took him to Scotland, Spain, Guam, and Vietnam. Following his honorable discharge in 1965, he worked at Lockheed Shipbuilding in Seattle.

On August 3, 1968, Jerry married Janet Shrauner, beginning a marriage of 58 years. He went on to earn a bachelor's degree in Forestry and Wildlife Management from the University of Idaho, where he also pursued graduate studies focused on the winter habitat of mountain goats in the Lemhi Mountains.

Jerry dedicated much of his professional life to wildlife conservation and public service. In 1973, he joined the South Dakota Game and Fish Department as Grants Coordinator. Recognized for his leadership abilities, he was subsequently charged with reorganizing the department and later served as its Director. In 1979, he became Regional Director for Ducks Unlimited, a position that eventually brought his family back to Washington.

Jerry and Janet raised their two children, Nicole and Brian, in Mount Vernon, Washington, where they lived for 35 years. He was active in the community and the Masonic Lodge and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time with friends and family.

In 2016, Jerry and Janet moved to a 20-acre property in Springdale, Washington, where he found great happiness surrounded by pine forests, meadows, and abundant wildlife. The property offered him the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and the company of his beloved German Shepherd, Skye.

Jerry was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who took great pride in his family. A lifelong outdoorsman and naturalist, he was known for his curiosity, leadership, and ability to connect with people. He was also a proud Navy veteran, an enthusiastic Washington Huskies fan, and a connoisseur of fine single malt Scotch.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 58 years, Janet; his daughter, Nicole Medina (Jose); his son, Brian Lounsberry (Christie); his grandchildren, Jacob and Owen Lounsberry, and Noah and Mateo Medina; his sister, Bette Grening; and his nieces and nephews, Lisa Smith, Brent Grening, Dawn Grening-Zempel, Gary and Rich Shrauner, Lisa Britton, and Steve Shrauner Jr. He also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends.

Jerry will be remembered for his love of family, his service to his country, his dedication to wildlife and conservation, and the friendships he built throughout his life. He will be deeply missed.

Services will be held for immediate family in a private ceremony.