REMEMBERING GERALD “JERRY” NEATH
February 4, 1939 -August 12, 2023
Gerard was born on February 4, 1939, the eldest son of Eldon and Catherine Neath; a loving husband to Jeanne for 37 years, a caring stepfather to Jennifer and a beloved brother of Larry and Rick Neath and their families. Jerry loved his family, his country, his church, and the Oregon community. He also loved classical music, genealogy, and books. He served the Presbyterian Church as an elder, treasurer and sang in the choir for several years. Jerry lived and worked in Oregon his whole life, except for the two years (1962-1964) he served in the U. S. Army. He was proud of his heritage and compiled many genealogy histories of his family lineage.
Jerry graduated from high school in 1958 where he played tuba in the band. I recall hearing Jerry practice on the tuba after school in the band room across the hall from the gym where we played volleyball or basketball. Jerry played tuba in the Zor Shrine Band.
Jerry started working for the Bank of Oregon in 1957 in the bookkeeping department. At the time, the entire staff consisted of just six other employees. In the coming years, computerization eliminated much of manual recordkeeping; but it gave rise to other opportunities in customer service positions. Jerry took advantage of these opportunities and went on to enjoy a successful 45-year career in banking.
Jerry was a charter member of OAHS, served on the organizational Board of Directors and was elected to the Board again from 1999–2001 and 2008-2013. He served 6 years as OAHS treasurer. He was an original member of the “Tuesday Crew.”
Many Tuesdays, Jerry and I would reflect on our days at the bank. “Remember when……” was often heard in our conversations. Reminiscent of days when the noon whistle blew, Jerry always alerted us when it was time for lunch – even though the noon whistle had ceased to be blown for many years.
As a lifelong resident of the Oregon area, Jerry was a “go-to” person for recalling many of the local businesses and residents of Oregon from the past. His knowledge was valuable as one of the authors of the “Oregon” book that depicted people, places, and events in Oregon from 1841–1941. Jerry was also deeply involved with the Rutland Center Church restoration and renovation and authored a detailed history of the church and the Rutland area where his ancestors were early settlers.
For over ten years, Jerry diligently researched Oregon Observer newspapers from 100, 50, 25 and 10 years ago to compile news excerpts from those years for the OAHS Oregon Timeline article published each month in the Oregon Observer.
Another major project for the Society was the acquisition of many historical items from the Florice Paulson estate. Jerry was one of a group of volunteers who spent many days, weeks, and months sorting through Florice’s vast collection of historical objects and data.
We are fortunate and grateful for the many years we have known Jerry as a friend, co-worker, and OAHS volunteer. Jerry will always be remembered for his many contributions to the Oregon Area Historical Society.
Written by JoAnn Swenson, on behalf of the members of the Tuesday Crew and the Board of Directors of the Oregon Area Historical Society.