We are just learning of Jerry's death, 15 months late. Although I have no idea if you will even see this, I feel compelled to share our respect and admiration for Jerry's time with my husband and me (and our kids). We were a family in crisis when we first met with Jerry in his private practice in Minneapolis. He was "our first therapist" (said a little bit like one would refer to their "first wife"). :-) Definitely not the last but he reflected possibility for us.
Jerry counseled each of us at times, often enough that he credited our family with subsidizing a number of remodeling projects around your house. (Remember those?) Late afternoon appointments always included a snack for Jerry (usually a large, whole carrot). We bought a copy of the picture that hung in his office lobby since it brought a sense of peace for all of us. That picture still hangs in our home.
The three of us joked that Bill & I really shouldn't be married. We cared for each other deeply but could not communicate to save our souls. With our German and Irish heritages, we were both fiery and stubborn - and any number of other things! But Jerry persisted in believing we could grow and change. And so, we have. It just took us awhile.
Jerry came up in conversation last week because we have begun to plan our 50th wedding anniversary celebration. It is amazing to us to be here. Despite the lack of contact over the past 25 years, we thought he would get a kick out of hearing that we made it this far. We are forever grateful for the time and help Jerry gave us. Wish I could have had this reminiscence with him...
Thank you for sharing his obituary here so we were able to read it. Your loss is immense and we grieve with you. And, know that Jerry has made a positive difference in so many lives.
I respected Jerry as Arcadia President when I was a volunteer. Jerry and just wife attended an alumni session at my house in Chatham, MA to interact with those alumni living on Cape Cod. All there we’re proud to meet him. Jean Fletcher
Jerry counseled each of us at times, often enough that he credited our family with subsidizing a number of remodeling projects around your house. (Remember those?) Late afternoon appointments always included a snack for Jerry (usually a large, whole carrot). We bought a copy of the picture that hung in his office lobby since it brought a sense of peace for all of us. That picture still hangs in our home.
The three of us joked that Bill & I really shouldn't be married. We cared for each other deeply but could not communicate to save our souls. With our German and Irish heritages, we were both fiery and stubborn - and any number of other things! But Jerry persisted in believing we could grow and change. And so, we have. It just took us awhile.
Jerry came up in conversation last week because we have begun to plan our 50th wedding anniversary celebration. It is amazing to us to be here. Despite the lack of contact over the past 25 years, we thought he would get a kick out of hearing that we made it this far. We are forever grateful for the time and help Jerry gave us. Wish I could have had this reminiscence with him...
Thank you for sharing his obituary here so we were able to read it. Your loss is immense and we grieve with you. And, know that Jerry has made a positive difference in so many lives.
Warmly,
Mame and Bill O'Meara