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Gerald Berton
Digerness
May 9, 1937 — May 3, 2025
Anacortes
Gerald Digerness was born May 9, 1937 to Gerhard and Bernice Digerness in Bremerton, WA and passed away peacefully on May 3 2025. He grew up on the family dairy farm when his parents and grandparents bought a farm on the Rock Rd in Sumas, WA. These early years were the beginning of his lifelong love of family, and where he grew to become the honest, straightforward gentleman he was. Trustworthy, dependable and always there for his family, friends or strangers. The first person called when a repair or rescue was needed.
Jerry is survived by Judy, his wife of almost 67 years. They met on a blind date at Washington State College and married in 1958 while Jerry was working for the Sumas Natural Gas Co. They were transferred to Utah when it became El Paso Natural Gas. During this time, three daughters were added to make their family complete. After countless long trips back home to visit, they made the decision to purchase the family farm in Sumas. Here Jerry and Judy raised their three girls, Terri (Chris McBride), Wendy (Terry Brazas) and Shari Digerness. These were good years. He enjoyed his many friends and neighbors. They took up boating in the San Juan Islands making more friends and fun memories. Jerry was active in NACD, the National Association of Conservation Districts. He moved through the organization becoming National President in 1992-1994. For a period of years Jerry and Judy moved to Skagit County and he became the Director of the Mount Vernon Chamber of Commerce. While there he was instrumental in getting the first Skagit Valley Tulip festival started in 1984. After retiring and moving to Anacortes, they bought a motorhome and travelled for several years creating even more fun memories!
Jerry loved his girls and their husbands and his family continued to grow with the addition of his seven grandchildren, Brian, Steven, Allison, Kelsey, Brandon, Megan and Tyler. And his seven great-grandchildren, Mason, Brooke, Robbie, Truman, Emma, Ruby and Peyton. They brought a twinkle to his eyes!
Jerry was a wonderful husband and father. We loved him and miss him dearly. He is survived by his two sisters, Arlene Dickerboom and Lois Slotemaker and preceded in death by his brother Ron Digerness.
A Memorial Service will be held from 1-4pm on June 30 at the Anacortes Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the charity of your choice.
To share memories of Jerry, please sign his online guest register and bookmark this link to check for updates: www.evanschapel.com/obituary/jerry-digerness
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