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Gerald Ames Obituary
07/09/2025
Gerald "Jerry" Ames, age 86, passed away on Wednesday, July 9, 2025 in Novato, CA.
He was born to Frank and Marcella Ames in San Francisco, CA and was raised in the home in the Sunset District with brothers Frank and Richard, both deceased. Jerry attended St. Ignatius High School in San Francisco and the University of San Francisco. He served in the United States Army Reserves from 1959 until he was honorably discharged in 1965 and worked for Standard Oil for the length of his career, taking the ferry across the San Francisco Bay.
Due to his strong Catholic faith and generous spirit, he lovingly volunteered for the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael and St. Peter's Elementary School in San Francisco. Throughout his life, Jerry enjoyed walking in the outdoors, spending time entertaining family and friends in his home in San Rafael and with his longtime friends in Russian River.
Jerry will be remembered for his ability to entertain with such detailed stories of San Francisco history, his thoughtfulness and generosity and for his great sense of humor and infectious laugh.
Jerry is survived by his nieces: Linda, Carrie, Shelley, and Jenny; nephews: Mike, Justin, Jeremy, and Devin; and godson: Brian. He was a great friend and uncle who always had time and energy to spend with all of them and will be sorely missed.
Memorial Mass will be at Holy Name Church 1555 39th Avenue San Francisco, CA on Saturday September 6th at 10:30 am, with a lunch to follow at Holy Name Church in celebration of him and his wonderful life. We hope you join us and please spread the word! In Lieu of flowers, please donate to Jerry's favorite charity St.Labre Indian School https://www.stlabre.org.
"Remember that when you leave this earth, you can take with you nothing that you have received-- only what you have given: a full heart, enriched by honest service, love, sacrifice, and courage." ~St. Francis of Assisi
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Memories and Condolences
for Gerald Ames
Sponsored by Sullivan's and Duggan's Serra Funeral Services.
6 Entries
Barbara Edwards
September 21, 2025
I met Jerry when I was working summers while in High School. He was the most fun and the best guy ever. We were friends for many years he took pictures at my wedding. He organized my baby shower when I left Standard Oil. He was definitely one the best friends and love of my life. I know you are in heaven happy as can be. God Bless You!
Kristin Bauer hawley
August 20, 2025
I was sorry to hear of Jerry's passing. His mother Marcella, and my mother Edna Bauer grew up together. The Ames's were always part of my family growing up. I will miss his laughter and his sense of humor and also stories of San Francisco and the Russian River. May he rest in peace and know that he made a difference in the world.
Joanne Milani
August 10, 2025
Jerry and I were friends from High School until we last spoke a few days before he passed. He was a wonderful friend and a true love. We shared many, many fun times-dating, Russian River days, friendships, and sharing the joys of a Godson. Laughter was a big part that held us together. Till we meet again, old friend...
Helena Ribeiro
August 10, 2025
My fellow Standard Oiler, may he rest in peace.
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Claire cook norton
August 10, 2025
Dear Jerry, such a gift to have known him, loved listening to his stories. I swear he knew everyone in SF, was so warm and friendly.
Joan McCormack
August 6, 2025
Jerry was a class act and always in my life. I shall miss him so, but am comforted by the wonderful memories that we shared. RIP my friend.
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