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Gerald REHM Obituary
90, of Cearwater was born March 10, 1927 in West Palm Beach, FL. He went home to the Lord on his 90th birthday, March 10, 2017. He was an Eagle Scout, the highest honor bestowed a Boy Scout. He was a 1948 graduate of the United States Merchant Marine Academy (Kings Point, NY).
Jerry's political career began in Dunedin as a City Commissioner, and ultimately serving three terms as one of Dunedin's youngest Mayors, at the age of 38 (1963-71). While Mayor, his greatest contribution was the acquisition and development of Caladesi Island as a state park. Now 51 years later, and for generations to come, all may enjoy what he worked so hard to preserve.
Jerry's passion for politics continued in the Florida Senate (1981-84) and the Florida House of Representatives (1986-90). While in office, he obtained funding for the widening of State Road 580 and the acquisition of land where the Dunedin Community Center is now located.
Upon conclusion of his political career, Jerry along with his son Scott have owned and operated the Florida Candy Factory for 33 years.
Jerry's most recent accomplishment has been working for and representing the United States Merchant Marine Academy, his alma mater in Washington, DC.
Jerry is survived by his three children, Greg (Kathleen), Pam and Scott (Mary); five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his wife of 22 years (Edna), her son, grandson and great-granddaughter.
There will be a gathering of family and friends on Monday, March 20 from 5-8 pm with a wake service at 7:30 pm at Sylvan Abbey United Methodist Church Hall, 2817 Sunset Point Road, Clearwater, FL 33759. A Memorial Mass will be held Tuesday, March 21 at 11 am at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 750 San Salvador Drive, Dunedin, FL 34698.
Please visit www.sylvanabbey.com to place tributes, video tribute and complete service details.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gerald REHM
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Jeannie Phillips
March 23, 2017
Jerry was a comfort last year when my husband died in an accident and a wonderful sounding board to our son, a current midshipman at USMMA. His public service and unwavering work on behalf of the Academy will be a living tribute. Sending love to his family.
CC Stephens
March 22, 2017
So many memories as a child, visiting my grandmother (Charlotte Hicks) at work for Jerry. I loved staying home sick from school so that I could hang out and visit the factory. Jerry was always so kind to my family. I just drove by the factory about 3 weeks ago and I was telling my children about all the great memories. One thing my grandparents have always said, "Jerry was the hardest working man we have ever seen". Thank you and you always have a special place in my heart.
CC
(Robert & Charlotte Hicks granddaughter)
Joy Bryant Lenny Berl
March 22, 2017
Our sincere prayers for Jerry's family and friends. He made a huge impact on everyone he came in contact with. We enjoyed talking politics with him and stomping through Capital Hill with The Kings Pointer magazines. A donation has been made to the USMMA in memory of Jerry for his Melville Hall project. He will be greatly missed.
Jack Latvala
March 18, 2017
As the Senator who represents the seat Jerry so ably represented 35 years ago and the person who sat in the office next to Jerry when I came to Pinellas County in 1979 I am saddened to hear of his passing. He was a fine man, a good leader, and a person who cared deeply about our county. His many accomplishments do not get the recognition they deserve. He will be missed by all of us.
Suzanne Graboski
March 18, 2017
Words cannot express my sadness at Jerry's passing. He was truly an amazing man and inspiration to me. It was a real blessing to know Jerry and I'm thankful to have called him friend. We can all rejoice in the fact that Jerry is now with our Lord and we will see him again. I can picture Jerry organizing things in Heaven for our reunion.
Sharon Poulos
March 17, 2017
So sorry for your loss.
Lael Giebel
March 17, 2017
Dear Scott and family,
Your dad was an amazing friend, I feel blessed to have known him. I am sorry for your loss, but I am also so happy about what a full life he had. He accomplished so much, and contributed so much to his community. He will be missed.
Christy and Bob Hupp
March 17, 2017
Wow! The family must be so proud of their Dad's accomplishments. He dedicated his life to serving the public. May you have peace and comfort at this time knowing he lived his long life to the fullest!
Ree Tanner
March 16, 2017
To Edna and Family, Was so sorry to learn of this. I realized how special Gerry was when you two bought my treasured family homestead at 1619 S Evergreen and gave me room to breathe while I was dealing with my own personal loss of my husband and trying to sell the home my parents built in 1960.It gave me solace to know that the home really went to someone who would love the old gal. You all have my deep condolences. Ree Weidemeyer Tanner
Rika Freeman
March 16, 2017
I read this obituary and it brings back so many memories. Election night celebrations, serving as a Page in the Florida Senate and hanging out with him in his office, many rides back and forth to Tallahassee, houseboat rides to Caledesi and the nightmare shift working at the end of the conveyor belt at the candy factory. All of them make me smile and warms my heart. He was an amazing man and will be greatly missed by many. Much love and comfort to all of you. Rika, James and Andy
The McGuire
March 16, 2017
We send our most empathetic thoughts and loving prayers to the family, friends, and associates of Dunedin's former mayor, Jerry Rehm. A successful man in many ways...May his legacy reflect a love for people close to him and a love for enhancing the charm of a small town he once called home.
donny ballou
March 14, 2017
I will miss and cherish the inspiration and offerings of Peace Jerry afforded me. Truly a dignified man I recently came to know, so God Bless him and all those he's touched over his many successful human years.
March 12, 2017
May God's loving kindness and comfort help you and your family through this very sad time Psalms 29:11
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