Gerald "Jerry" Geer

Gerald “Jerry” Geer

May 16, 1933 – May 27, 2025

Gerald Geer, known affectionately to family and friends as “Jerry” or “Bomp,” passed away peacefully in Olympia, Washington on May 27, 2025, at the age of 92. He was born at home in Morton, Washington on May 16, 1933.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Agnes “Pun” Geer; his children James (Laura) Geer and Cynthia Geer; his sister Sandra Pollock widow of Roger; his grandchildren Amanda Keith (Dan), Kimberly Geer (Kurtis), and Christopher Geer (Hannah); and great-grandchildren Liam and Lucas Keith and Payton Geer.

He was preceded in death by his son Robert Geer; his parents, Dora and Frank Geer; and his brothers Frank and Norman Geer.

Gerald attended school in Elma, Washington, and later enrolled at Washington State College in Pullman. One of his favorite stories—told more than once—was his dramatic departure from WSC, which led directly to his enlistment in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Thanks to a knack for typing and perhaps a little luck, he was assigned to the Army’s signal corps with a security clearance, stationed in Pusan, Korea.

After returning home, Gerald returned to the timber industry where he grew up working alongside his father and brothers. That path changed when he met the love of his life, Agnes. When he asked her father, Francis Gleeson, for her hand in marriage, he was told he’d need to leave trucking behind for a more stable line of work. Gerald took that advice to heart, becoming a purchasing agent for the City of Olympia.

He later joined the State of Washington, where he rose through the ranks to become Director of Purchasing—an appointed position under Governor Dan Evans. But Gerald never lost his love for trucking, and when a new administration came into office, he saw an opportunity. Alongside his brother Norm, he co-founded Geer Brothers Trucking. Together, they hauled coal to the University of Washington and to cement plants in Seattle.

Eventually, Gerald returned to public service before retiring from the State of Washington. Of course, retirement didn’t mean slowing down—he soon found himself back behind the wheel, driving over-the-road from Washington to California. He especially cherished trips taken with his grandson Chris, which became the fuel for more of his stories.

Work defined much of Gerald’s life—he saw it as a measure of character—but his true passion was his family. He adored his grandchildren Amanda, Kimmie, and Chris, and was endlessly proud of them.  He never missed an opportunity to sing Little Jack Frost to them then to his great grandchildren.

Gerald also had a deep love for golf. Gerald and Agnes were longtime members of the Olympia Country and Golf Club, where he played often and served as club president. Another passion that rivaled even golf was Chukar hunting. In fact, he and Agnes were married on September 17, 1959.  Unknown at the time, that date may not have been the best idea.  The state decided it would open Chukar season on September 15th.  That timing may have raised some eyebrows, but it all worked out. Classic Bomp.

Gerald’s legacy is one of hard work, love of family, service to others, and an unmatched gift for storytelling. His tales—many of them told more than once—will continue to echo through the lives of those who loved him.

Service will be held at Noon, July 8th 2025 at St Michaels Parish, 1204 11th Ave SE, Olympia, WA 98501.  A reception will immediately follow, then a graveside gathering at 2:30.pm.