Jerry Sengstock Obituary

Jerry (Gerald) Sengstock

October 24, 1937 ~ June 25, 2013

Jerry was born in Seattle to Eugene and Elizabeth Sengstock. He graduated from Highline High School in 1955, during which time he joined the Navy. He married Sonya Cathey in 1957 and had two children, Suzanne Rene and Scott E.

Jerry was adventuresome and often said he "shot from the hip". In the 1960's the family went to Vashon where he impulsively bought a farmhouse and began a remodel. That experience encouraged him to explore his visionary talents and passion for building and architecture. He quickly moved from small jobs to his legacy of custom homes and commercial properties-the K-2 factory, Vashon Pharmacy and new Thriftway Complex.

Jerry thrived on diversity and change. He was an active member of the Vashon Golf and Country Club, Jaycee's, Kiwanis and Quartermaster Yacht Club.

In 1988 he married Diane Heckler and they enjoyed living in several of Jerry's custom built homes before moving to the Rocky Point house in Bremerton. Jerry loved the beach and often said he would never leave there.

Jerry's passion for boating began early with the purchase of an 18' Fiber Form. He quickly moved on to classic boats all of which he customized with his unique eye for design. He enjoyed cruising Puget Sound, San Juan Islands and Gulf Islands. His boat "Gypsy Dancer" will continue to cruise in his memory.

Jerry became an active member of the Bremerton Yacht Club in 1999. He was the driving force behind the design and completion of their picnic shelter named "The Jerry Sengstock Longhouse" in his honor. He always reached out to help and gave freely of his time expecting no less than perfect of himself in all his life endeavors.

His interest in cars began at the age of 12 while reconstructing his Model-T Ford. Over the years he owned and customized many classic cars, attended shows and won numerous awards.

Jerry and Dianne Shanander began sharing their lives in 2004 and married in 2010. They were partners playing and working together-traveling, boating and remodeling.

Jerry never lost his novel sense of humor or his desire to live life to it's fullest. He was an amazing, artistic visionary with his own distinct style. He most definitely left a footprint for all of us to enjoy.

He is survived by his wife, Dianne, children, Suzy, Scott and Debbie, and five grandchildren, Devan, Erin, Jonathan, Courtney, and Collin.

A memorial will be held Sunday, July 14, 2:00pm at the Vashon Golf and Country Club. The "Jerry Sengstock Memorial Picnic" will be held Monday, July 22, 6:00pm at Bremerton Yacht Club.

Those who wish may make donations to Jerry's favorite charities, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Americares.

Published by The Seattle Times from Jul. 9 to Jul. 10, 2013.
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To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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3 Entries

jerry was a first class guy...it was an honor to work for him at rocky point...i,ll never forget his work ethic and his wit and wisdom!!!! rip pal,,,,,jkf and others...

jim frydenlund

July 13, 2013

jerry was a first class guy!!it was an honor to have worked for him on his house.we will always remember his great wit and wisdom....jkf

July 13, 2013

Jerry loved his family, lived life to the fullest, and taught us all to make the most of every opportunity. I am grateful to have been able to spend time with Jerry and Dianne earlier this year at their house in Scottsdale, and enjoyed every minute of our visit, especially the laughter and conversation. I will always cherish that trip. Peace to you, Jerry, and blessings to your family.

Gina Di Gleria Gable

July 10, 2013

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