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BORN
1940
DIED
2021
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Gerald McDonald Obituary
Gerald Henry McDonald, known as Jerry to friends and family, slipped the surly bonds of earth on December 31, 2020 at the age of 80 following a hospitalization with COVID. He was born April 4, 1940 in El Paso, Texas. Following graduation from Texas A&M, he married his sweetheart, Jane and commissioned into the Navy, flying EC121s in the Hurricane Hunters. After his service in the Navy, he became a commercial pilot for Western Airlines and Delta Airlines, retiring in 2000. Upon retirement, he was conscripted into grandparent service, and was frequently put to work as a chauffeur and principal fan at his grandchildren's sporting events. He maintained a close and witty circle of friends who could often be found sharing a few beers and exchanging stories.
His life was characterized by his love of country and his love of family. Those who knew him well will remember him as a good friend with a keen intellect and wry sense of humor.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James Collie and Peg McDonald and Grace Charles and his brother James Collie McDonald, Jr.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jane McDonald; his siblings; John (Cathy) McDonald of Shiloh Il, MaryAnn (Wayne) Burks of Tampa, FL and Brad (Merri Moore) McDonald of Pine Mountain GA; his children Karen (Rex) Massey of Reno, Mike (Melissa) McDonald of Larkspur, CA, and grandchildren; John (Abby) Massey, Joseph Massey, James Massey, Dylan McDonald, Luke McDonald and Katelyn McDonald.
As Dad used to say after a tough Aggie loss, "they didn't so much lose as just run out of time." He fought until the end; but just ran out of time. Services will be held a future date.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gerald McDonald
Sponsored by Truckee Meadows Cremation & Burial.
ButonWebb
December 31, 2023
I was very lucky to have known JERRY! He was always making every thing sound funny. I'll always remember Jerry and Jane ushering me into the prestigous school of NAVY PREFLIGHT; THANK YOU for not letting me get there early!! I think of Jerry often and wish we could hoist one more beer together..God is with you.
an old friend,
Button (Sid) Webb
Jani Jenkins
January 31, 2021
Jerry will be missed. Jane and I gave Jerry the honorable title of
"Weight Watcher Assistant". He would so patiently make a run to Costco or anywhere else we needed him to visit for us. Jerry was a good man and he will be remembered by all.
jack bauer
January 17, 2021
I have known Jerry almost 50 years . A true friend and gentleman . He will be missed by all who knew him . RIP Gerald , miss you !!! Jack
Sid (Button) Webb
January 12, 2021
Jerry was one of the most memorable guys I have ever had the pleasure to know . JERRY I'll always remember you--KEEP THE SHINEY SIDE UP!!! god speed.
Button
Paul Willis
January 5, 2021
Very sorry to hear about Jerry's passing. Flew with him at Western and Delta. Played a "few" rounds of golf in many locations over the years and he usually won. He'll be missed and my sympathies to the family.
Michael Hannan
January 4, 2021
To Jerry’s family I express my sincere condolences and ask a loving God to comfort you at his loss. I flew with Jerry a number of times in the good old Western days and remember him well for his abilities as a pilot as well as his kind demeanor. Jerry had a sharp wit and a keen intellect. He was truly one of “the good guys.”
Gary Dyer
January 4, 2021
Jerry was a good man and friend. I will miss him as will his many friends. He has flown west now. We will all join you eventually old friend. You've done your job here. Rest in peace.
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