Gerard Gorham

Gerard Earl Gorham Jan. 1, 1939 - Mar. 13, 2012 Friend, faithful husband, Grandpa, mentor are just a few of the words that describe Gerard "Gerry" Gorham who passed away on Tuesday, March 13, 2012, at the age of 73, after a short but courageous battle with lung cancer. Gerry was born and raised in the Glenview District of Oakland. Gerry attended St. Mary's High School and St. Mary's College before being swept off his feet by his loving wife of 52 years Julia Walsh. Gerry worked for thirty years as a teamster truck driver for Stewart Drayage Trucking Company, before opening his own trucking company in the Port of Oakland, Bay Area Container, Inc. Gerry's company has been faithfully servicing Steamship Lines in the Port for more than 27 years. Gerry is one of the kindest people in the city who never turned his back on anyone in need. Gerry routinely donated to causes he felt were going to help people in need and students who were attempting to expand their educational experiences beyond the classroom. Gerry donated to the Close-Up Foundation, an organization that sends students to Washington D.C. to experience government in action. Gerry was a dedicated boss, lifelong mentor to scores of young people, and faithful friend to all. Kevin, Jula and Jennifer (Andrews) were unconditionally loved and supported by their wonderful father. His daughter-in-law Katy (Kenney) and son-in-law Mike (Andrews) were loved like his own children. Gerry's most important and cherished role was as Grandpa to Barbara, Hannah, Amanda, Lauren, Sean and Ashley. The Rosary will be held on March 21 at 7 p.m., followed by a Funeral Mass on March 22 at 11 a.m. Both will occur at St. Margaret Mary's Church, 1219 Excelsior Ave. Oakland. Donations can be made to the Alameda Close-Up Program, 210 Central Ave, Alameda 94501 or the American Cancer Society.