Jerry L. Bream

Dr. Jerry L. Bream, 81, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2025, at Millard Fillmore Hospital after a brief illness.

Born on February 8, 1944, in Lockport, New York, to Lloyd and Mildred (Kraatz) Bream, Jerry's life was marked by service, education, and a passion for helping others.

After graduating from Dunkirk High School in 1962, Jerry enlisted in the U.S. Navy for a four-year term. He proudly served his country until his separation in January 1967. Stationed in San Diego, California, Jerry also served aboard the USS Coontz (DLG 9), a destroyer leader escort ship during the Vietnam War. His service earned him a Combat Action Ribbon and a Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon.

Following his military service, Jerry attended Niagara County Community College before continuing his studies at the University at Buffalo. There, he earned his Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate degrees, specializing in Curricular Planning.

For 29 years, Jerry worked for Cornell Cooperative Extension in Lockport, NY, where he focused on workforce and leadership development, adult education, and child and adolescent development. His expertise extended to consulting with nonprofit organizations and corporations, and his contributions had a lasting impact on the community. Jerry also served as an adjunct professor at SUNY Empire State College for 10 years, inspiring many students.

Jerry is survived by his beloved wife, Myra; his children, Ryan Bream (Sunny Walker) and Shauna Bream (Tim Schiesel); his stepchildren, Melissa (Jon) Leiski and Amanda (Brodie) Rich; and his grandchildren, Kai Schiesel, Christian, and Jonathan Bream. He is also survived by his brother, Terry (Mary) Bream of Lockport, and four nephews, Eric, Greg (Melanie) Bream, and Chris and Nick Carlson.

In accordance with his wishes, Jerry donated his body to the University at Buffalo School of Medicine.

A private celebration of life will be held later at the family's convenience. The family invites those wishing to honor Jerry's legacy to contribute to the UB Foundation in support of the Anatomical Gift Program at the University at Buffalo, 128 Farber Hall, Buffalo, NY 14214. (https://ubfoundation.buffalo.edu/giving/)