James Harry Gerard, 92, of Mesa, Arizona died August 10, 2024. Jim was born October 6, 1931 in Roberts, Idaho the son of Harry Clay “Jack” and Doris Abbott Gerard. He attended elementary school in Terreton and graduated from Roberts High School.
He married Cecil Gasser of Driggs, Idaho in Terreton, Idaho on September 3, 1952. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple in November of 1963.
Jim met Cecil while attending the University of Idaho, where he earned a Bachelors Degree in Agricultural Education. He and Cecil graduated together, with their first child, James Clyde. Their first daughter, Susan Lois, was born while Jim was gone to Korea – serving in the army.
He owned and managed Terreton Implement Co. and enjoyed the association of many farmers and friends, providing parts, repairs, and sales of John Deere equipment. Cecil worked with him as the bookkeeper. He had a small airplane, “the Champ” he enjoyed using for field service calls or just fun for his children and friends. He later sold the John Deere dealership and managed the Terreton branch of Snake River Equipment Co. – the International dealership.
He was involved in numerous church and community activities including Mud Lake Fair and Rodeo, Lion’s Club, and helping organize and coach grid-kid football.
In 1994, Jim and Cecil moved to Basalt, Idaho where they made friends with many great people. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Jim served in numerous callings. He and Cecil served a Mission at the Idaho Falls Temple Visitors Center.
Jim enjoyed gardening and shared his abundance with neighbors and friends. While living in Basalt, he continued to be involved in many community and school activities.
He and Cecil traveled to visit and support their grandchildren in most of their activities.
He is survived by a daughter, Sheila (Jeff) Kibler of Salt Lake, three sons, Jack Noel (Claudette) Gerard of Holladay, Utah, Jeffery Golden (Suzanne) Gerard of Murtaugh, Idaho, Jerald Sampson (Melanie) Gerard of Mesa, Arizona, 29 grandchildren, and 47 great-grandchildren.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Cecil, 4 sisters and one brother, 2 children – James Clyde and Lois Susan, and 5 grandchildren – J.W., Markie, Jonathan, Jeremy, and Joyle.
Jim’s family expresses gratitude to the kind and gentle care given him by the folks and staff of Summit Care at Sunland Springs in Mesa.
The family will meet with friends at Eckersell Memorial Chapel (101 W. Main, Rigby, Idaho) on Friday, August 16, 2024 from 6:00 to 8:00pm . A graveside service will be held at Fielding Memorial Park Cemetery in Idaho Falls on Saturday, August 17, beginning at 10am.
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
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