Gerald Robert Gross

Gerald R. "Jerry" Gross, 83, a former resident of the Peninsula, died in Longview, Washington following a valiant battle with cancer on May 7, 2011. The son of Alvin and Genevieve (Butcher) Gross, he was born in California, Missouri on July 30, 1927. The family moved to Portland, Oregon where Jerry grew up in the St. Johns district of north Portland. Following graduation from Benson Polytechnic High School he enlisted in the United States Navy. Jerry served his country during World War II and was honorably discharged in 1947. Jerry was employed as a long haul truck driver for over 50 years and was a member of the Teamsters Union. Over the years he was a member of St. John Lutheran Church of Seaview, life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars in Spokane, WA, Long Beach Elks lodge, Ocean Park Moose lodge, Astoria Post of American Legion and the Rainier, Oregon Eagles lodge. Most recently he had been residing in Deer Island, Oregon. Jerry is survived by his wife Jeanette Gross of Deer Island, OR; sons Paul (Jackie) Gross and Dennis (Tricia) Gross; step-sons Dennis Freeman of Puyallup, WA, Rick Freeman of Portland, OR, and Bruce (Terry) Welks of Valley, WA; grandchildren Hawley, Ben and Georgine. Jerry was preceded in death by his first wife Beverly who was the mother of his sons; sons Bill and Ken; a twin who died at birth; and his second wife Audrey. Jerry has requested no formal service. His family will announce a get together at a later date. His guestbook is available at www.penttilaschapel.com.