Jerry Birkhimer

Jerry Birkhimer
June 12, 1924 - Oct 11, 2013
Resident of San Ramon
Jerry's strong heart finally rested on Friday, October 11, at the age of 89, with his loving wife, Gloria, by his side.
Jerry was born in Ohio and grew up with his two siblings during the Great Depression, which left an indelible mark. Seeking work the family migrated west first to California's lower Central Valley. It was here while working the fields that Jerry first met Jack and Arwanda Quarry and their young family. Jerry graduated from high school in Indio, CA, and the Birkhimer family eventually made their way to the San Francisco Bay Area in the early 1940's.
While working at the Owens-Illinois Glass Company in Oakland, CA, he met and married Virginia. Jerry was then called to serve his country.
A U.S. Army Veteran serving as a Paratrooper stationed in Japan and having made 19 jumps before being honorably discharged in 1947 and returning to Oakland and his wife, Virginia. They had two children, Dennis and Debbie.
Throughout his entire life Jerry was the consummate entrepreneur/businessman.
Starting in the 1950s he owned and operated Service Stations in Oakland and Alameda; which lead him into the used car business, owning and operating used car dealerships in Richmond, Oakland and San Leandro.
In mid-1960's the long term relationship with Jack, Arwanda, Jerry and Mike Quarry led Jerry into the business of professional boxing whereas the Promoter, he staged local fights in Oakland and Richmond including most of the televised fights of the then championship heavyweight contender Jerry Quarry and light heavyweight contender Mike Quarry.
In 1988, he met and married Gloria. Jerry and Gloria worked well together owning and operating a trailer and used truck business in Vallejo and Modesto before retiring in 2005.
Throughout his life Jerry enjoyed his family and friends playing cards and chess with them, as well as traveling.
Jerry is survived by his dedicated wife, Gloria, and children Dennis and Debbie (Gary); and Gloria's daughter, Noemi. Jerry was preceded in death by his former wife Virginia, his parents Sam and Blanche, brother Sam and sister Jewel.
A Memorial Service and Interment will be held on Wednesday, October 23, at 10AM at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in the San Raphael Chapel, 1051 Harder Rd/Mission Blvd Hayward, CA.