Gerald "Jerry" Shorey

Gerald Glenn "Jerry" Shorey, 87, passed away on March 22, 2025, in Oakridge, Oregon. A lifelong Oregonian and dedicated public servant, Jerry's life was defined by his unwavering commitment to community, service, and family.

Born on May 12, 1937, in Eugene, Oregon, Jerry grew up in the nearby town of Westfir. He attended Westfir Grade School and graduated from Oakridge High School with the Class of 1955. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving from 1955 to 1959 as part of the Military Police Canine Division at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. His dedication to service continued through his time in the U.S. Air Force Reserve from 1978 to 1993, including active duty during Desert Storm as a medivac specialist. Jerry was Post Commander of American Legion Post 64, as well as Vice Commander for the American Legion, and also Judge Advocate of the American Legion.

Jerry's professional life was marked by decades of tireless work with the U.S. Forest Service. Beyond his federal service, he devoted over fifty years as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), providing critical care across communities including Oakridge, Powers, Estacada, and the Portland Metro Area. He also served as a First Aid Trainer and was known locally for his compassionate care of animals as a volunteer vet for local critters.

His deep-rooted sense of civic duty led him to serve in numerous leadership roles within Oakridge. Jerry was a Police Reserve officer and later became Fire Chief of Oakridge. His dedication to public service extended into local government where he served as a City Councilman and eventually Mayor of Oakridge. He also contributed his expertise on the Lane Electric Board and was known throughout the region as someone who would not only join a committee but often lead it.

Jerry's legacy is one of action and compassion-a man who never hesitated to step forward when help was needed. Whether responding to emergencies or guiding civic initiatives, he embodied what it meant to be a man of service.

He is survived by his beloved wife Joan Shorey; his sister Judy Wetteland; his children Jeff Shorey, Anna Skaggs, Rebecca Kelly-Harnett, Stephanie Newberry, and Kim Page; nieces Cindy Matsen, Susan Hayden, and Pam Navarrette; nephew Scott Shorey; along with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren who carry forward his enduring spirit.

He was preceded in death by his father Marion Shorey; mother Irean Clark; and brother James "Jim" Shorey.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, April 18, 2025, at Oakridge High School Gymnasium located at 47997 W 1st Street in Oakridge, Oregon. The service will begin at 10:00 AM followed by a graveside service at 11:00 AM. A reception will take place at noon at the Oakridge Fire Station.

In addition to his many accomplishments and acts of service, Jerry found joy on the golf course-one of his favorite pastimes when not serving others.

May Gerald Glenn "Jerry" Shorey's memory continue to inspire all who knew him through his example of selfless dedication and love for community.