Gerald Robert Ream, 71, of Oak Harbor, died May 19, 2010, in Oak Harbor. He was born Nov. 11, 1938, in Minneapolis, Minn., to Robert Clement and Ida Marie (Erikson) Ream. From childhood to death he was known as Jerry.

On Dec. 16, 1961, Jerry married Barbara Ann at St. Luke’s Methodist Church in Memphis, Tenn.

Jerry retired in 1982 from the United States Navy as an Aviation Tech Chief, after serving 22 years. During that time, he was stationed in Pawtuxet River, Md., Corpus Christi, Texas, Millington, Tenn., and Whidbey Island. Jerry was an aircrew member in Vietnam, and a part of Project TRIM. He also taught at Naval Air Maintenance Training Group, NAS Whidbey. After retiring from the Navy, he continued working for the Navy Exchange.

Jerry was a very humble man; he did not like to call attention to himself. He loved his family and adored his grandchildren. He called Whidbey Island home. After being stationed here several times while in the military, Jerry and Barbara moved to Whidbey Island for good in 1971.

Jerry is survived by his wife Barbara of Oak Harbor; children Robert and wife Amy of Jacksonville, Fla., Susan and husband Tony Konovaloff of Oak Harbor, and David and wife Nirvana of Seattle; grandchildren Nathan, Megan, Trent, Benjamin, Jeremiah, Caleb, Evan and Chancellor; sister Sharon Blomgren of Champlin, Minn.; numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

A memorial service was held for Jerry on May 25 at Concordia Lutheran Church in Oak Harbor, with a reception following. Burley Funeral Chapel in Oak Harbor was entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be left for the family at www.burleyfuneralchapel.com.