Obituary

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gerald A. Peel, Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend on July 11, 2024.  Jerry was born on May 7, 1943, to Gerald and Marie Peel in Seattle, WA.

Jerry married the love of his life, Gail Peel (nee Yoes), on May 26, 1979, in San Francisco, CA. Together, they created a lifetime of cherished memories in the San Francisco Bay Area, Hawaii, and Bellingham, WA, where Gail continues to reside.

Gail fondly recalls Jerry’s culinary masterpieces, especially the Thanksgiving dinners he lovingly prepared for 46 years. Hosting dinner parties in their home, Jerry always impressed in his signature bow tie and fedora. Daily crosswords written in pen, the morning lattes with exquisite latte art, and “Daddy” burgers in front of the TV on Friday evenings are just a few of the treasured moments they shared. Their adventurous travels by plane, train, and automobile were highlights of their life together.

Their son, Michael’s fondest memories, were from his first soccer season, when they didn’t win a single game except for the one his dad coached. The late nights when Jerry would bring home Nation’s hamburgers, and they would sit together watching “Columbo.” The moment Jerry found out he was going to be a grandfather and the joy on his face as he held Reese for the first time. These are all memories he will forever hold dear.

Their daughter, Devin, will always cherish their wonderful summer vacations in Hawaii and Lake Tahoe, their “secret look,” and his pirouette across the stage as the lights came on during a set change at her ballet recital. Memorable meals include her dad’s famous spaghetti, Sunday waffles, and the mornings he would take them to Lucky’s for maple bar donuts on the way to Highlands Elementary. And of course, Thanksgiving dinner, which was testament to his love of cooking for his friends and family.

Jerry had a variety of interests and hobbies. He was passionate about needlepoint, jigsaw puzzles, stamp collecting, reading, and board games. Making Gail her daily 10:00 AM latte was a ritual he cherished. He loved to travel, especially by train, and his taste in music spanned from 50’s rock ‘n roll to jazz.

His curiosity and love for learning were boundless. Jerry was a Professor Emeritus at the San Mateo Community College District, where he inspired many in the fields of Hotel & Restaurant Management and Business Administration.

Jerry has left a lasting impact on everyone he met and will always be remembered for his exceptional cooking, warm smile, kindness, sense of humor, infectious laugh, and his readiness to drop everything to help those he loved. His affectionate hugs, the way he looked at Gail, and their unique and playful interactions will be forever etched in our hearts.

Jerry is survived by his devoted wife, Gail Peel; his son, Michael Peel; his daughter, Devin Wright; and his two grandchildren, Reese and Dylan. He is also remembered by four nieces and nephews, and countless friends who were like family.