Gerold "Jerry" R Wade

Gerold R. Wade.

July 1, 1931 - June 18, 2025.

Gerold "Jerry" R. Wade passed away peacefully in Olympia, Washington, on June 18, 2025, just shy of his 94th birthday. Born in Denver, Colorado, on July 1,1931, Jerry was a man who built a life of purpose, joy, and adventure from the ground up.

Raised in San Francisco, Jerry attended school and college while working full-time in the shipyards, an early reflection of his determination and work ethic. On his 21st birthday, he received what he often called a "gift" from Uncle Sam: a draft notice during the Korean War. He served honorably stateside at Fort Lewis, Washington, as a company clerk, and spent weekends fixing cars and roller skating at Tacoma's Roller Bowl, where he met the love of his life in 1952.

He had a deep love for the outdoors and animals, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. He served as Troop Leader and Scoutmaster for Olympia's Troop 1, leading with heart and dedication. He took his family camping once a month, instilling in them an enduring love of nature and adventure. His mechanically inclined mind meant he could fix or repair just about anything and did, with resourcefulness and grace.

Jerry was active in the community, always giving more than he took. He was involved in organizations like local Boy Scouts of America, TIPS Club, Kiwanis, American Legion, and Elks, where his generosity, leadership, and good humor made a lasting impact. Whether driving a beer truck for a private distributor sharing stories, and smiles along every delivery, working for the County and State or running his own accounting firm for over four decades, Jerry connected with others through kindness and heart.

He was a lover of fishing, golfing, road trips, rebuilding cars, flying airplanes, and simply exploring life with those he loved. From winding drives through the western United States to boating trips in the San Juan Islands and Canada, he filled his days with memories that now live on in the hearts of those he touched.

Jerry lived by one of his favorite sayings: "You get out of life what you put into it." And what he put in love, laughter, hard work, and generosity left a legacy that will endure.

Jerry, as he was affectionately known, was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His journey on this earth was marked by compassion and unwavering love for his family. His passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and many others whose lives were touched by him. We ask that you remember him not for the way his life ended, but for the way it was lived and for the profound impact he had on the lives of those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Jerry is survived by his wife of nearly 71 years, Sharon; children Daryl, Dana (Jody), and Dawn; grandchildren Shannon and Gerold (affectionately known as Jerry); and great-grandchildren Ezra and Leia.

Although Jerry's physical presence may no longer grace our lives, his spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us. May his memory be a blessing, and may we carry forth his legacy of love and compassion in all that we do.

A celebration of Jerry's life will be held at a future date; a joyful gathering filled with laughter, stories, and the kind of good company he always cherished. Whether you're swapping tales of camping trips, raising a toast over his favorite brew, scotch whiskey, wine or sharing his favorite music, we invite you to honor Jerry's legacy the way he lived warmly, generously, full of laughter and surrounded by love.

If you would like to celebrate Jerry's spirit in another meaningful way, memorial donations in Jerry's name may be made to one or both of two causes close to his heart: the Boy Scouts of America (Scouting America) local chapter; Pacific Harbors Council, where he devoted years to mentorship service; or Wolf Haven International, a sanctuary that reflects his deep respect and affection for animals and the natural world.