Elden G. "Jerry" Awes

1954 - 2025

Anacortes - Elden, G. Awes, fondly known as Jerry to family and friends passed peacefully on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 in Skagit Valley Hospital in Mount Vernon. He was born on November 23, 1954 in San Diego, California; the fourth of six children and the first born son of Bud and Lois Awes. Jerry had three older sisters, (Barbara, Kathleen and Patricia) and two brothers (Steven and Richie), who followed after him.

The Awes family moved to Anacortes, Washington, when Jerry was still young. He attended Mount Erie and Island View Elementary Schools and graduated from the Anacortes High School with the Class of 1973.

In High School, he played baseball, football and basketball, taking a liking to baseball. He met the love of his life, Mary Sullivan, while he was in High School. Together they attended many School dances, falling more in love with each other, and as time passed, they became inseparable.

In 1975, Jerry landed a job at Texaco Refinery, which soon became his second family. He took his job and responsibilities seriously. He worked as an Operator from 1975-2014, making new friends along the way. They would spend their recreational time, golfing, fishing, playing softball and bowling.

In August of 1976, Jerry and Mary married. Two daughters were born to them, Jacqueline in 1979 and Janessa in 1981. Jerry adored his daughters and taught them many of the life skills he could, as in developing good work ethics, loving each other, fishing, camping, learning to BBQ and play sports. Most importantly, he showed them how to mow a lawn correctly.

Jerry was blessed with four grandchildren: Samantha, Jenna, Rylee and Jackson. They were his love and pride of joy. He spent as much time as he could with them.

Jerry's last log at the Refinery when he retired read: "Leaves are falling all around. It's time I was on my way. Thanks to you, I'm much obliged for such a pleasant stay. But now it's time for me to go. The Autumn moon lights my way, I'll just ramble on." - Led Zeppelin.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Bud and Lois; daughter, Janessa and brothers, Steve and Ritchie. He is survived by wife of 48 plus years, Mary; his daughter: Jacqueline (Jimmie Baker); his grandchildren, Samantha, Jenna, Rylee and Jackson; his sisters, Barbara (Jay Brand), Kathy (Jim Stewart) and Patty (Pat Morgenthaler).

His Memorial Service will be held 2 pm on Monday, January 20, 2025 at Evans Funeral Chapel. Jerry will be missed tremendously. His parting words were: " I have had a good full life. I have no regrets."

To share memories of Jerry, please visit www.evanschapel.com/obituary/jerry-awes