Bertram Ramsey Jerman

Bertram Ramsey Jerman 93, died March 30, 2011 in Tucson, AZ of natural causes. Born in Hayden, AZ, Bert was raised in Bisbee, AZ. After attending the University of Arizona, Bert began a long career in the military. As a radio repairman and operator with the U.S. Army Air Forces, Bert was captured by the Japanese in April 1942, and was forced to endure the Death March of Bataan. He survived 42 months as a prisoner of war until being liberated in 1945, and was later awarded a Bronze Star. In 1949, Bert married Helen Folkers, who remained his loving wife for nearly 62 years. His continuing career in the Air Force took him from Tucson to Okinawa and various parts of the U.S. He returned to Tucson for good in 1966, where he retired from the military and completed his career as a civil servant at Fort Huachuca. Bert was devoted to his family and gave freely of his time to support them as well as various organizations. Bert was predeceased by his brother, Jack. He is survived by his wife, Helen; his children, Michael R. Jerman, M.D., Debora (Keith Kaback, M.D.), Sandra (his "buddy" and caregiver); grandchildren, Catherine and McKenzie and Pepper (his four-legged friend). Special thanks are extended to Ron Dellosa, his loyal friend of 32 years, and to Blanca Best for her compassionate care in recent years. A Memorial Service will be held at East Lawn Palms Cemetery, 5801 E. Grant Rd., Tucson, on Saturday, April 9, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Phil Schlesinger Civitan Club, 6950 E. Camino Aurelia, Sahuarita, AZ 85629-9183. Arrangements by HEATHER MORTUARY.