Jerry Decker

September 7, 1945 - May 31, 2025

Jerry Francis Decker of Filer Idaho died May 31st, 2025 while living in Sun City West, AZ. He is survived by his brother, Fred (Neta) Decker, children, Kim (Ian) Clark of Westminster, VT, and Mark (Emily) Decker of Sandy, Utah, two grandsons, West and Bridger Decker and second wife, Pat Sandusky.

Jerry was born in 1945 and raised on a farm near his hometown of Filer, Idaho. He graduated from the University of Idaho, and subsequently served with distinction as an USAF pilot from 1967 to 1972 during the Vietnam conflict. Upon returning to private life, he began a 40-year career in commercial banking in Idaho and Washington. Jerry was active in community organizations and activities over his work life, but especially enjoyed a 30-year affiliation with Rotary. Upon retiring in 2012 he pursued a lifelong dream of playing golf despite his "hacker" reputation.

Jerry met his wife, Linda, on a blind date during Christmas break in 1966. They were married in 1968 and raised their children while making numerous work-related moves throughout Idaho. They moved to Ellensburg, WA in 1993 and Linda subsequently passed away from lung cancer in 2013. Jerry later renewed a close relationship with Pat and they enjoyed years of travel and companionship.

Jerry will be remembered for his desire to support and improve the communities where he lived and worked. He prided himself on helping others improve their skills and knowledge, especially in banking and business-related areas. He also will be remembered for his obsession with golf and, of course, his questionable swing skills. There will be an open house in Ellensburg, WA on July 18th, 3-5 (803 S Willow St).

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Magic Valley Times-News on Jun. 26, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Jerry Decker

7 Entries

Melissa Hayes

July 10, 2025

I first met Jerry while working at US Bank as a loan coordinator in 1996. He was the first commercial loan officer that I was partnered with. He quickly became my mentor and friend. His love for Linda was apparent in every decision he made, and he was somehow able to balance his career while putting his family first. Jerry shared his knowledge with me and helped me become who I am today, not only as a banker but as a person. Eventually our careers moved us in different directions, but we always kept in touch and made the effort to see each other on a regular basis.
One of my favorite memories is from after I moved to California, when I went to visit Jerry in Palm Desert. We went to dinner and there was live music. Jerry mentioned that he used to love going dancing with Linda but had not danced since she passed away. We danced and laughed the evening away, talking about Linda and the things they used to enjoy. I like to think that dancing and talking with me helped Jerry to realize that he could carry his love for Linda with him and find love again, as it was not too long after that evening that Jerry told me that he was seeing Pat. I am so happy that he found love and companionship again.
I was able to meet Pat on a trip to Ellensburg and then Jerry and Pat came to visit me and my husband in Morro Bay, California. It was so good to see Jerry in love again.
I am blessed to have known Jerry and will miss him greatly.

Tori Thomas

June 28, 2025

Mr. Decker,
You raised a wonderful son. Thank you for your commitment to our community & your service to our nation. Blue skies & tailwinds.

RETA HAWLEY

June 26, 2025

I attended 12 years of school in Filer with Jerry, plus Sunday School and several other groups. He was always "the gentleman"! He was serious but had very wonderful sense of humor and the first to volunteer to help. I feel honored to call him "friend".

The Rev. Margaret Fisher

June 26, 2025

Mark and Kim, I have many fond memories of your parents during the time I served as their priest. They were among my favorite parishioners. (I guess it´s been long enough for me to admit to favorites!) I remember stopping by their house to drop something off and them coming to the door all barefoot and giggling-they always seemed to enjoy one another so much. I remember on All Saints Day when we brought pictures of our saints how your dad brought one of his dad. It looked just like him, very bald. I asked if looking at it made Mark apprehensive, which he had a good laugh at. I liked that they had such good sense of humor. Your mom taught me a lot about patience and appreciating what is without always striving so hard for what might be she led the altar guild while I was at Grace, a thankless task with a crew of ladies who were opinionated in various directions she showed so much grace and kindness. I often think of them. When people die whose faith I know and respect, I always wish I was still there and could do the service and bury them, in my love for them and our shared love of God. Blessings upon your family in your grief; may you know yourselves to be surrounded by divine love and the love of those who loved Jerry and Linda. Margaret

Sandra Jarolimek Stevens

June 26, 2025

Seems like we never forget our classmates no matter the grade. Jerry was a best friend to my cousin David Brydl. I went to elementary school in Filer. RIP.

stan mai

June 26, 2025

So sad to hear of Jerry passing. I am so happy we got the chance to see Jerry and his new wife . Stan and Pat Mai

EG and Bob Watt

June 26, 2025

Linda and Jerry were good friends when they lived in Buhl, Idaho. Our kids played together when we visited. We started a bridge club. We spent a lot of time together, and we missed them when they were transferred from here. Jerry was a great guy, and I know he´ll be missed by many. We are holding his family in our thoughts and prayers. RIP Jerry.

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