Gerald "Gerry" G. Bryant Obituary (1919

Gerald G. "Gerry" Bryant, 94, a resident of the Forest Grove community died at his home September 6, 2013. Military Honors and graveside services will be held at 12;30 p.m. on Monday, September 16, 2013 at Willamette National Cemetery; 11800 SE Mt Scott Blvd in Portland. Gerry was born on March 2, 1919 in Springfield, IL. He was one of six children born to Grover Clyde and Florence Gladys (Fry) Bryant. He was raised and received his education in Springfield graduating from Feitshan High School with the Class of 1938. He enlisted into the US Army on January 21, 1942. Gerry served his country in Africa, Italy and Europe. He served with the 9th Infantry Division, 39th Regiment, Company L. as a machine gunner and MP receiving the Purple Heart. He was honorably discharged in 1945. He met the "Love of His Life", Betty L. Reese, through mutual friends. They were married on March 17, 1948 in Astoria, OR . After their marriage, they resided in Portland and in 1964 they moved to the David Hill area of Forest Grove. Gerry was a patrol officer for the Portland Police Dept for 29 years retiring in 1974. Among his interest He enjoyed hunting, fishing and the outdoors. He was a sports fan and followed football, basketball and baseball. Gerry was also an avid reader, particularly fond of history on and around the Civil War and WWII eras. He also enjoyed beekeeping and farming his land in Forest Grove. Gerry was a family man and looked forward to family gatherings and traveling to visit relatives. He is preceded in death by his loving wife; Betty, a son; Jeffry Bryant who died in 2011 and four siblings. He is survived by his daughter; Terry Bryant of Forest Grove, OR, a granddaughter and her husband; Sarah Elizabeth Hostetler-Rosen and Eric Rosen both of Tigard, OR, a brother George Leon Bryant of Elgin, OR and numerous nieces and nephews.