Jerry Alan Emerick

Born September 18, 1946 in Columbus, Ohio, Jerry was the third of eight kids born to Gerald and Marjorie Emerick. He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings Suzan Tarnoff, Jane Perry and Dan Emerick, and survived by siblings John, David, Polly and Tina Emerick as well as a large, extended family.

A mischievous child, Jerry loved erector sets, fishing, scouting, and was intrigued by skeletons of buildings, umbrellas, and critters.

He attended Ohio State University where he earned bachelor degrees in Psychology and Art. His fascination with optical illusions in nature, art and architecture led him to advanced studies in bio-science focused on the physiology of the retina. Putting his optical expertise into practice, he “added” a bay front to his Victorian Village home using the trompe l’oeil painting style.

Jerry had a rare intellect, curiosity and a very quirky sense of humor. His love of art, contra dancing, Gregorian chant and shape note singing built his communities. Jerry’s extensive genealogical research grew deep roots for the Emerick family tree.

He collected folding tools, folding furniture, folding bikes, folding silverware and anything else he found interesting. With his extensive collections, he reused objects in ingenious ways. As a scientist, artist and inventor, he lived by Thomas Edison’s adage “To invent you need a good imagination and a pile of junk”. Jerry had both in spades. His many eccentric inventions and gizmos included an epicyclic machine and an electric rubber band. So I’m told.

He lived off the grid for long stretches on his “frog farm” in southern Ohio and a remote property in Canada, where he enjoyed his solitude and tested his survival skills. He built a duct tape canoe named “After You”. Who knows how long it floated.

A handsome man with sky blue eyes, he befriended the less fortunate, was an adventurous eater, treasured independence and didn’t like to complain.

Jerry passed away on August 8, 2025. He is fondly remembered by friends and family, and is surely enjoying his eternal ‘breakfast pie’ - the official food of those who live life on their own terms.

In lieu of flowers, consider donating to Doctors Without Borders or a charity of your choice.