Dr. Gerold Lamers, beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 11, 2024, at the age of 102. Gerry was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Herman and Elizabeth (Krause) Lamers on September 3, 1922. After graduating high school in 1940, he proudly served in the Navy during World War II as a Pharmacist's Mate, stationed in Farragut, Idaho, where he met the love of his life, Maxine R. (Anderson) Lamers, at a USO dance. They married in May 1943, just three months before Gerry was deployed overseas.
Gerry often cited his most rewarding life achievement as being married for 78 years to his beloved wife, Maxine, before her death in February 2021. His experience as a corpsman led him to pursue a career in Dentistry. After the war, Gerry attended Gonzaga University for pre-med, then transferred to the University of Washington School of Dentistry. After graduation, they moved back to Spokane where he practiced in the Medical Center Building. Gerry loved dentistry and helping his patients. When asked what he did for a living, he would smile and then tell everyone "How he was down in the mouth" for 37 years!
A dedicated community member, Gerry served as president of the Spokane District Dental Society, Spokane City Club, and Exalter Ruler of the Spokane Elks. He also was involved as a board member of Deaconess Hospital and Spokane Youth Sports Association. For many years, he and Maxine participated in the Ferris High School, "Ham on Regal" productions, forming lifelong friendships.
Gerry cherished his time at their cabin on Priest Lake in Idaho, where he enjoyed family gatherings, huckleberry picking, boating, fishing, snowmobiling, and a good happy hour with loved ones. He and Maxine traveled extensively, exploring countries all over the world. They also shared many golfing adventures throughout the Pacific Northwest and Canada and remained active in a dinner group well into his 90s.
When asked about his secret to reaching 102, Gerry would say "Take one day at a time." His outlook on life was rooted in gratitude, positive thinking, enjoyment of family and friends, and a sense of humor.
Gerry is survived by his daughter, Judy Halstead (Chuck); son, Frank Lamers (Charlotte); his grandchildren, Heidi Halstead, Charlie Halstead, and Noelle Crandall; great-grandchildren, Coral Ringer, David Crandall, Chaz Halstead, and Chance Halstead; great-great-grandchildren, Emery, Devin, and Adelle.
The family would like to sincerely thank the staff at Rockwood Retirement Community South Hill, for their loving care and support. Gerry appreciated their kindness and enjoyed sharing laughter with them.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gerry's name to Hospice of Spokane, the Shriners Hospital, The Ronald McDonald House, or the charity of your choice.
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