Obituary of Gerald Dean McCormick

Gerald “Jerry” Dean McCormick passed away March 15, 2014 at the age of 89, in Olympia, WA. He was born December 23, 1924 in Tacoma, WA. His father, George Albert McCormick was born 1894 in Kansas and died in 1940 when Jerry was only 15. His mother, Nina Nelson was born 1895 in Wisconsin and died in 1947 in Tacoma. Jerry had a brother named Robert who was born in 1920 and died at the young age of 4. Jerry went to Federal Way High School and joined the Coast Guard at the age of 17 (1942). He was a 1st Class Gunners Mate during World War II. He served on a troop transport, U.S.S. General Scott in the Pacific and European Theater. Jerry met Roberta in January 1946 at a New Year’s Eve party. They were married 8 months later on August 2, 1946 at Asbury Methodist Church. (They would have been married 68 years this August.) Two years later, their first son, Gerald Dennis was born and 18 months later, their first daughter, Terry Ann was born. Their second daughter, Kathleen Lynn was born in 1957 and their second son, Richard Scott was born in 1962. Jerry owned his own Texaco Gas Station in Tacoma and later sold it due to the “gas wars” in the 1960’s. He then worked for Broadway Building Maintenance Co. and later began his own company in Olympia “McCormick’s Cleaning Service”. Jerry was very adventurous. In his younger years he raced hydroplanes and won many trophies. He also raced cars and motorbikes. Jerry was adored and loved by his family for so many reasons. He was a kind and generous man with a positive attitude. He would give you the shirt off his back and the last dollar in his wallet. He was loyal, honest, and dependable, with a hardworking work ethic. Jerry was a man who could fix everything or create anything. Later in life he had a passion for woodworking and creating beautiful birdhouses, benches and many other wooden creations. He was always a helpful hand at his church, whether it be washing windows, cleaning the carpets or creating wooden crosses. His dedication to giving his time and talent was boundless. Jerry will be sadly missed by his loving wife, Roberta. His children; son Dennis (wife Janet), daughter Terry (husband Len Leonard), daughter Kathy (husband Jon Bauer) and son Rick. His grandchildren; Jerry McCormick (wife Janet), Kristine (husband Zach Kosturos), Jeff Leonard, Lori Marshall, Katie Meyer, Jen Leonard and Elliott McCormick. His great grandchildren: Devin, Jayana, Austin, Grace, Sophia, Ashlynn and Khloe. We will miss him dearly; until the day comes we are all together again. Please leave memories of Jerry or condolences for the family in the Guestbook below.