Idaho State Journal, 11/01/09

MONTPELIER, Idaho — Gerald (Jerry) K. Eastman, 72, returned to our Heavenly Father on October 30, 2009. He was surrounded by his loving wife and family. Jerry was born in Montpelier on May 29, 1937. He attended school in Montpelier and worked many jobs including the Royal Bakery, Burgoyne Cafe, Center Traffic Control (CTC), Stauffer Chemical, Agrium and Conda mining. His work ethic was extraordinary and his rapport with his co-workers was incredible as he enjoyed many wonderful memories with everyone he worked with.

Jerry met and married the love of his life, Lois Anne Neilson, on September 4, 1959, in Ovid. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Logan Temple.

Jerry was loved and admired for his wonderful sense of humor and pleasant and positive attitude. Those same wonderful qualities are what carried him and his family through all the trials and tribulations of life. He spent his free time helping others with his many self-taught talents. He was always fixing a neighbor’s bike, making a headstone for a family in need or visiting with a lonely friend. He only needed to be aware of a need and it was always met to the best of his ability. He spent much of his free time building surprises for family and friends including beds, vanity sets, whirly gigs and birdhouses to name a few.

Jerry fought his courageous battle with cancer with faith, determination and laughter. To him attitude was everything and was appreciated by those who cared for him.

Jerry leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, joy and laughter for all those whom he knew and loved and will remember him always.

Jerry was preceded in death and is now enjoying their eternal reunion with his parents, Emmett and Emma Eastman.

Jerry is survived by his beloved wife, Lois Anne; his two adoring daughters, Kathy (Nick) Parker and Heather (Mike) Sanchez; grandchildren, Jason, Whitney, Sammi, Kassie and Jessica; and great-grandchildren; and his sister, Mary Jo (Tony) Jemmett.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, November 3, 2009, at 12 Noon, at the Montpelier 5th Ward LDS Church. Interment will be in the Montpelier Cemetery.