Gerald Whitzel

Gerald D. Whitzel CHESAPEAKE - Gerald Dennis Whitzel, 68, of the 1400 block of Laurel Ave., passed away Nov. 29, 2009. A native of Baltimore, he was the son of the late James and Ruth Whitzel. He retired from the United States Navy after 20 years of service having served during the Vietnam era. He also retired from the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service. He was a member of the Peabody Conservatory in Baltimore, the Virginia Beach Opera Association, the Virginia Beach Chorale and Oaklette United Methodist Church Choir. He is survived by his wife, Janice Elaine Whitzel; two daughters, Kathleen M. Foley and husband William of Suffolk and Jennifer D. Harrison and husband Kevin of Poquoson; a brother, Daniel J. Whitzel and wife Beverly of Salisbury, Md.; seven grandchildren, Julia M. Gilliam, Rachel E. Parker and George, Melissa E. Gilliam, Rebecca L. Harrison, Carrie K. Harrison, Benjamin M. Harrison and Jared F. Harrison; a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives. A funeral will be conducted Wednesday at 11 a.m. at Oaklette United Methodist Church with the Rev. Eugene Meek officiating. The burial will follow in Rosewood Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home, Indian River Chapel, today from 6 to 8 p.m. Memorial donations may be made to American Diabetes Association, St. Jude's or to the Foodbank. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.hollomon-brown.com.