Gerald ‘Jerry’ E. Burrows

LCDR Gerald “Jerry” E. Burrows of Oak Harbor died suddenly on Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016, in Yuma, Ariz.

Jerry was born in November of 1940 in Denver, Colo. Jerry, aka “Gunner,” was a dedicated aviation ordnanceman, wonderful husband and a great dad.

Jerry joined the U.S. Navy in 1957, and honorably served 30 years with pride, dignity and integrity. His Naval career started as a young enlisted sailor and advanced up the ranks (Mustang) and retired as a LCDR. He served on multiple aircraft carriers, traveled to many different countries and was well-decorated for his services. Jerry was a great leader and dedicated himself to helping those that wanted to succeed. He had an abundance of great friends throughout his career that carried forward.

Jerry and Sue were married in Oakland, Calif., in 1965.

Survivors include his wife Sue; daughters Rhonda Bletner (husband Bill) of North Carolina, Stephanie Burrows of Washington and Diana Bommelyn of California; and Paul Burrows (wife Leigh) of Colorado. He is also survived by sister Shirley Gibb (husband Jack) of Oregon, brother Bud Burrows (wife Ruby) of Arizona and sister Judy Mackintosh (husband Lonnie) of Colorado. Jerry had numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren and a great-great-grandchild, as well as nieces and nephews.

Jerry enjoyed traveling, fishing and golfing. He was always in his RV with Sue, visiting family and friends and going to old and new destinations. He was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7392. We will be having a celebration of life at the VFW in Oak Harbor. The date will be determined at a later date.

Jerry loved his family, his country and the United States Navy. Fair winds and following seas shipmates!