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Jerry LaPointe Obituary

1943-2008 Gerald T. LaPointe ("Jerry"), age 65, passed away at home with his family by his side in Rancho Cucamonga, CA on Thursday, August 14, 2008, following a courageous battle with esophageal cancer. He was born to Ernie and Norma LaPointe, the oldest of eleven children, on June 19, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan. He graduated from Ganesha High School in Pom ona and he attended Chaffey College. On May 9, 1970, he was united in marriage to Jaimie Lee Clark of Etiwanda, California. After working at General Dynamics in the 70's Jerry began working for the Naval Civil Service as a design engineer. After 30 years of service he retired from the Naval Weapons Assessment Center (NWAC) in Norco, California. During these years he owned his own still photography studio, and was a Reserve Deputy Sheriff with the County of San Bernardino. Jerry had many interests. Throu ghout his lifetime he was a scuba diver, a small aircraft pilot, a radio controlled airplane operator, a yachtsman, a horseman, a rodeo roper, mounted posse, a motorcyclist, ham radio operator, bicyclist, and a outdoor enthusiast. He enjoyed RV-ing in his "coach" with family and friends. Jerry was a talented and accomplished artist with numerous accolades as a still photographer, videographer and poet. Prior to retiring, he formed the Jerry LaPointe Video Productions, serving individuals, major corporatio ns, and institutions with their video and editing needs. One of his proudest works was "Life's Garden", a series of seven relaxing musical videos featuring his travels. Ham radio with his buddies at WARFA (Western Amateur Radio Friendship Association) was one of his greatest pleasures the last few years. His KD6SA call letters were included in every kibbutz. Every Wednesday night he was in charge of the Western Public Service System roll call. He was an advisor of the National Traffic net, and member of t he Sunset Radio Group. Jerry is survived by his wife, Jaimie LaPointe, his son and his wife Jerry and Marsha LaPointe, his daughter and her husband, Kim and Rory Wybert, his daughter and her husband, Denise and Brad Wilder, and his youngest daughter and her husband Jennifer and Jeff Dorgan; seven grandchildren, Matt LaPointe, Tyler LaPointe, Megan LaPointe, Dillon Wybert, McKenna Wilder, Brian Wilder, and Ken Dorgan. He is further survived by his mother & father, two brothers, seven sisters, numerous ni eces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and many friends. Relatives and friends are welcome to the memorial services for Jerry LaPointe which will be held at 3:00 p.m., Thursday, August 21st, at Hillside Community Church, 5354 Haven Avenue, Alta Loma, CA 91737. Pastor Kent Tucker will officiate. Following the services, a reception will be held at the home of Jerry & Jaimie LaPointe. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Hillside Community Church, WARFA Law, PO Box 636, Clare mont, CA 91711 or any cancer organization.

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Published by Daily Bulletin on Aug. 19, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Jerry LaPointe

Not sure what to say?





Greg Huhn

October 24, 2008

So very sorry to hear of Jerry's passing. It was a pleasure to have a customer (and friend) like Jerry. He was so well liked by our user group gang. I know I still enjoy his "Ice and Water" video. Although we never met you, the family, our hearts and prayers are with you.

Greg and Steve (the Century Systems Guys - the ones with the "Velocity" editing products)

September 12, 2008

Dearest Jaimie--



Sorry that we were not able to join in the celebration of Jerry's life in California.

Yesterday, we (I, Deb, & Jerry's spirit) took a day to celebrate Jerry's life in our world. We piled into our untested 4x4 truck and headed into the high country east of here. We learned that the truck does well--Jerry would cheer us on as we attempted to climb a rock shelf and succeeded or tackle a 1/4-mile hill climb on loose rocks and succeeded or went down sheer drops with no problem. We even went to the site of the ice cave. And, while we were in the high country seeing 100's of square miles and blue skies, we talked to God (whatever you perceive God to be) and listened to the casual reply (thought borrowed from John Denver's "Colorado Rocky Mountain High"). "A LIFE WELL-LIVED" was the reply. We spent up to 5 hours out there and never saw another being or heard any man-made sounds--just the 3 of us.

And, when we came back to our house, we went out to our 5th-wheel trailer to listen to music that Jerry loved and toasted to a life well-lived. As we were getting ready to part, a Willie Nelson song came on. It was "Blue Skies" from his album titled Stardust. And the very last words of the song were "Blue Skies, from now on".

All in all, it was a supercalifragilistic day for all 3 of us.



Love Pete & Deb

John McGrath

September 3, 2008

I only spoke with Jerry on the radio through the WPSS net. He was always a very nice guy and I remember a few nice conversations about flying we had. He will be greatly missed. John N9AMI

Frances and Steve Riedell

September 1, 2008

For our dear Brother-I will always remember your kind and gentle spirit. Being away from the family so many years i did not realize your many accomplishments in life. You were a great brother when we were little, fixing our bikes. I still remember the radio you made for me on my ninth birthday. I am so happy to have seen you recently and will always have in my heart the last time we talked on the phone shortly before you went to heaven. We will see you again. We love you Jerry. Our sympathy to Jamie, Jerry Jr., Denise, Kim, and Jennifer.

August 30, 2008

My name is Wendy (Murchey) Arany. Over the years, Jennifer and my lives have intersected many time. We were in gymnastic's together, her mom was my English teacher in Jr. High, we became good friends in high school (during which time I got to sail to Catalina with her and her father) . . . I even married one of her old boyfriends! She, and her then fianece Jeff, even attended our wedding in 2003. My husband, Allen, and I were unable to attend Jenn's wedding, and have since lost contact over the years. My sister-in-law, who still lives in Alta Loma, alerted us of Jerry's obituary in the local newspaper last week. My husband and I would like to send Jenn and her family our deepest condolences. We are so very sorry for their loss. If you could please pass this message on to Jennifer, along with my e-mail address, it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time.
Wendy

Allen Arany

August 30, 2008

Dear Jenn, Jamie, Kim and the rest of the wonderful Lapointe family, I'm very sorry for your loss. As a young kid trying to find my way, your Dad was huge influence to me. He is the who got me into the Explorer program and gave me his old pair of handcuffs to use when I went on patrol. They were great pair of handcuffs, one side read "Guilty" and the other side read "Not-Guilty", and his instructions on how to show them to some one being handcuffed were very funny. I always enjoyed talking with him, and soaked up his advice he gave me. I remember how excited he was when a big group of us went to see Hunt For Red October, and the conversations after on how close the movie matched the book were priceless. No doubt in my mind that knowing Jerry Lapointe made me a better person.

JODY LOSQUADRO

August 27, 2008

I met Jerry through Jaimie, what a wonderful loving family. Jerry was my greatest inspiration and mentor. Jerry had many gifts, but the one that stands out most, is how he made you feel when in his presence. Thank you Jerry for all your computer help, your photography advice, your biking tips, the fond memories at the beach house and most of all, sharing the word of God. If I got the opportunity to sit across from God, I'd thank him for lending me You -(Jerry). My sincere sympathy goes out to you Jaimie and family. Love and prayers, Jody Losquadro

Janelle Kotzin

August 25, 2008

Saturday, on the South Fork Trail, just past the split that divides the path going to Dry Lake from the one going to Dollar Lake, I sat down by the stream and said a prayer for Jerry LaPointe. With my finger I traced his name on an old Jeffrey Pine and told the forest and sky that Jerry LaPointe loved them. They already knew that. Life is eternal. We are one. Farewell for now, Jerry LaPointe.

Mary & Mike Feryan

August 25, 2008

Dear LaPointe Family -
My husband, Mike, and I send our condolences to you. His kindness and friendship will be missed. Peace be with you.

Janet Nelson

August 24, 2008

Dear Jaimie and Family,
One of God's greatest gifts to me has been the joy of loving you both and, in return, being allowed to spend so many happy days with you. I will miss Jerry so much but the sound of his laughter, his wonderful smile, and so many other treasured memories remain so alive and vital in my heart. He was truly one of a kind and someone who blessed all those he touched. I will miss him terribly and will continue to treasure the good times we had. My thoughts and prayers are with you now and always.

Frank & Pat Decker

August 24, 2008

Jerry obviously meant so much to so many, and will always be remembered!

Howard E Taylor Jr KD7WIZ

August 22, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Cindy Becker

August 22, 2008

Jerry will be missed. He was a great co-worker and friend at NAVPRO Pomona and NSWC Corona.

Victor & Sherri Garcia

August 22, 2008

To Jamie & Family,
You are in our thoughts & prayers.

Steve Bynum (W6NFL)

August 22, 2008

Jerry was a good friend. To meet him for the 1st time was to have known him forever. He was always kind and warm hearted. He was one of a kind and i will miss him. He shared with me his faith in God as his Savior. I too share the same faith and cant wait to see Jerry again.

Jerry and friends having lunch at Tom's Farms in Corona, CA 4/08

August 22, 2008

Marvin & Judy Wilder

August 21, 2008

Dear Jaimie and family,
What a beautiful tribute to a wonderful man. We will always remember the good family times we shared with all of you. Bless you.

Katie Cappuccio

August 21, 2008

"When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight. "
~Kahlil Gibran

With Sympathy

Teri Cappuccio

August 21, 2008

I will forever remember Jerry as a warm, friendly and funny guy, and I'm thankful for having shared a small part of his exciting life.

Morgan ( I work with Jennifer) Ketza

August 21, 2008

My heart goes out to you and your family during this difficult time. Your dad looked like a well traveled, accomplished and wordly man who had a muriad of interests. It looks to me like he led a very active, happy life. :)

You are in my thoughts.

Mount Whitney

Ann Robinson

August 20, 2008

What a wonderful tribute. I learned so many things about him I didn't know before. My heart and thoughts are with all of you. I'm so glad to have had the privilege of having your dad in our lives. He was such a great role model for Scott and they shared such a special friendship during a very difficult time in our lives. I enjoyed our Sierra camping trips very much and he taught me so much about so many things, photography, backpacking, and life. He will be missed so much but the memories will keep him in our hearts forever.

I'm attaching two photos from our Mt. Whitney trip in 1998. These are on the summit on Aug. 22, 10 years ago almost to the day. What a great trip we had!! We took it easy, taking four days where many do it in one or two days, but it was well worth it. None of us had any trouble with the altitude (14,497'!) and we had so much fun. My brother is the other person with us. Your dad kept your mom and me going, stopping every 10 min. for a bite to eat and drink to keep our energy up, in addition to his constant words of encouragement. What a great accomplishment we shared that day! If you think these photos are okay, would it be all right for me to post them on your web site?

Thank you again for putting the site together. Take care. Ann Robinson

Kimberlie Wybert

August 20, 2008

To my dad,
I will miss you and your smile. You were wounderful to me. I will always admire your strength and determination. I love you so much! Kim

Sammy Dominick, Sr.

August 20, 2008

To Jaimie & Dear Family,
What an honor to have known you both for such a short time, yet it feels like a life time. What an awesome, gentle, loving, caring and charasmatic friend. I wish I could have done more, than just stopping by on my way back from a bike ride.
My thoughts & prayers have been a daily routine since Jerry got sick. I did enjoy Bible study with all of you. I hope our friendship will go on from here. I am here if you need anything Jaimie......
Love,

Sammy D

Gary & Pat Westrope

August 20, 2008

To all of the LaPointe family,
Jerry was a very special person, Loved and respected by all. God surely put him on earth to guide the rest of us in the right direction, Jerry did not fail him. Please know that he is sitting beside God at this time still guiding us. We will miss him.

Barbara Kistinger

August 20, 2008

I met Jerry through Jaimie, with whom I worked. Jerry was a friend to all of Jaimie's friends. He took care of my electronics/computer problems after I went through a divorce. What a positive, wonderful person Jerry was. He will be remembered and missed. We were blessed to have him among us.

Tom LaPointe

August 20, 2008

Love & Family …always together forever!
Jerry is one of the heroes in my life. I can recall so many fond memories of my big brother. The days when I was a kid and how he took me on mini bike outings, trips to the snow and fishing. He was the first to introduce me to potatoes O’brian at one of my boy scout camping trips… oh how I love them still today. I remember when he and dad built me a go-cart that rivaled all the neighborhood carts and made me shine.

Throughout my adult life Jerry always made me feel welcome and inspired me for his knowledge and sense of adventure. Jerry always lived life I mean really lived life. From sailing to bicycling, flying model airplanes to camping and hiking, photography to ham radios, Jerry shared his adventures with family and friends. What can I say… You will be missed and thought of often. My brother, my hero, see you in heaven!

Ron and Dinora Nilson

August 20, 2008

My dear Jaimie, Norma, Ernie and families: Ron and I will always remember Jerry. He was a very special human being. He has left a legacy that very few people can leave. His kindness and gentleness has touched us all. May your wonderful memories of the good times sustain you all at this time.

With our deep sympathy and love,

Daniel & Erika Finch McCaffrey

August 20, 2008

Uncle Jerry will be greatly missed - he was a warm, caring person who loved his family (including his dogs!) and always brought a smile to our faces.

Nancy Stewart

August 20, 2008

Jaimie and Family,
I worked for Jerry for many years at the Navy, first in Pomona, then in Norco. There are so many positive things he left as his legacy.....his intelligence, common sense, and good judgement were a blessing to all of us who worked for him and with him. His enthusiasm for life, strong set of values and the pride he took in his family were an inspiration to all. I will miss him and want to express my sincere sympathy to you, his family.

Thomas Dant

August 20, 2008

Our sincere and heart felt condolences to all the Lapointe family and friends on your loss of Jerry.
Having worked for Jerry at the Navy Gage Lab-Pomona & the Naval Warfare Assessment Center in Norco. I will miss him deeply and always think about him and pray for him

Randy Horne

August 20, 2008

Dear
Jamie and family,
Like so many others, Jerry left me with many wonderful memories growing up. He was always a happy, adventurous, and above all esle, "a really great guy". Thoughts of him sailing, splashing in the surf, and his huge genuine smile will always be with me.
Love you all,
Randy C. Horne

John Beck

August 20, 2008

To the Family of KD6SA, Jerry;
I have known Jerry since the Keller Peak Days. He has been a Good Friend of mine. I will miss him. He is with the Great Spirit now,
Mitakuye Oyasin (We are all Related)

Patty & Bill Bumpus

August 20, 2008

Dearest Jaimie and Family,
To be with Jerry, at any occasion, you felt his undivided attention. Jerry made you feel special and would converse about many interesting subjects. We know Jerry had a passion to be out on the boat especially with his beloved son, Jerry and his family. It is an honor to have known this wonderful family man. He touched our lives with joy. His memories will be with us always. God Bless You Our Friend.

Aunt Patty and Uncle Bill Bumpus
(Jerry and Marsha LaPointe Family)

Dee Hardy

August 20, 2008

Jamie and Family
I remember working with Jerry on a viedo tape for Hillside when I was going through cancer myself. How supportive he was and for his prayers. Then a few months later he found out he had cancer, then it was my turn to hug him and pray for him. Jerry was a friend and a good man, he was always willing to help out with church stuff and he always had a simle on his face no matter how he was feeling. Jerry will truly be missed by those of us at Hillside

Malia Haney

August 20, 2008

It was a pleasure knowing such a giving person. I will miss you. I know you are in heaven. Please look over Jaimie's yoga friends.

Barbara McCaffrey

August 20, 2008

Jaimie,Jerry&Marsha,Denise&Brad,Kim&Rory,Jenn&Jeff and beautiful grandchildren,
Jerry was the BEST, he was an example to all of us on how to love in the selfless way he had, always putting others above himself as Jesus taught. He is my childhood and adult friend, we were two souls learning about life together as youngsters, my buddy. He often drug me along with him and his friends-we spent so many evenings listening to the radio together ( the future HAM ?), we were so close as children. Naturally we grew up and took on responsibilities but as an adult he never changed--Jerry is someone you could always count on. Jerry never held a grudge for anyone, always looking to the good in people and trying to understand them. He accepted people as they were the good and the bad. He loved his family above all things,and was so proud of all of you! He loved life and he loved people. He was my brother and better, my friend. I will miss him but expect to see him some day again when we will rejoice together!

Moody Law

August 20, 2008

Jaime and family, Norma and I will miss Jerry's physical presence but rejoice in the many memorials he left behind...His art work, Ham Radio craftsmanship and most of all...his friendship. As secretary of WARFA, please accept our condolences from Jerry's large radio family. We choose to remember the good times with him.
Any funds sent to WARFA in Jerry's memory will be donated to one of the activities he supported, the OMIK Scholarship Fund. He worked and donated labor and materials for this tax exempt fund. All monies will go directly to the chosen students...no administrative fees.

God Bless the family,
Moody Law, WQ6I
Norma Law, N6MMF

Donald Olejnik

August 19, 2008

Jerry was a special friend of mine for over 30 years. His passing is a great personal loss to me. He was kind, gentle, and understanding. Yet he was also strong, and very intelligent. He would treat people as his own brother or sister. He always had an open door policy and welcomed everyone into his life. Everyone that came into his life has special memories of him. One always felt comfortable just being near him. He was a great man and a great human being. I will miss him forever. Rest in peace Jerry!

Stacy and Rob LaPointe

August 19, 2008

Thanks for sharing Jerry's life with others and all of us in the family. We love you.

Stacy and Rob

Herb Tausch

August 19, 2008

Dear Jaimie and family, I always think of Jerry as a caring, generous and helpful person to everyone. He was particularly special to me, and we had some fun times on WARFA trips. I'm grateful to have known him and he'll always be my special friend. Peace be with all of you.

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