Gerald James Newman

1929 - 2017

Gerald James Newman

It is with great sadness to announce the passing of my loving husband and best friend, Jerry Newman.

Jerry was born on Oct 7, 1929 to Joseph and Jenny Newman in Winona, Minnesota. He was the oldest of 4 children. He graduated from Winona High School where he was an excellent student, played football and ran track. He worked his way through college and graduated from University of Minnesota with a BS degree, later earning his MA and Administration credential.

In 1952 he married Janet Martin and had 2 sons. The family moved from Minnesota to San Bernardino because they both were offered teaching positions. Jerry loved teaching mathematics during his 37 years of his career. In 1971 he married Vivian Herren, also a teacher, who had 2 girls rounding out this new family to 4 teenagers and 2 newlyweds. Jerry's legacy in education are the 1,000's of students that were inspired by his love for mathematics, his humor, his faith in the success of his students, and unselfish gift of his time to them.

In 1994 Jerry and Vivian moved to the beautiful community of Sun City Palm Desert. After both retired, the fun really began. It was no more ties and suits but shorts every day, even in the snow at their Big Bear Lake cabin! During the warm summer months, they traveled the world and enjoyed many cruises.

Jerry was a life member of the NEA, CTA, Retired San Bernardino Teacher's Assoc., as well as an Elk member for 33 years. He had many hobbies and interests but his favorite pass time, by far, was spending time with his grandchildren at family get togethers that included the annual PJ Christmas party as well as annual family reunions!

Jerry is survived by the love of his life, Vivian, his son Mike Newman (Sheree), Huntington Beach, Dr. Kristy Hilton-Parmelee (Perry), Bermuda Dunes, Cynthia Herren-Patrick (Michael), Beaumont and his younger brother Charles Newman, (Eau Claire, WI). He was predeceased by his son Joseph. He leaves behind 9 wonderful grandchildren Kristen (Brad), Melody (John), Tyler (Megan), Brittany, Austin, Lindsey, James, Jacklyn, Jordyn as 2 great grandsons, Levi and Nolan.

At Jerry's request, he wanted a private service, followed a celebration of life. In Jerry's memory take a loved one to lunch!

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit:

desertsun.com/obituaries.