Jerry Richard Bonnell

Jerry Richard Bonnell, 79, of Waldport, OR, died of a natural causes in March at his home in Waldport.  He was born December 16, 1939 to John Bonnell and Ethel (Teague) Bonnell in Redwood City, CA, the younger of two children.

Jerry enlisted in the Naval Reserves in 1957 and retired from the Navy in 1983 as a Photographer’s Mate First Class. After serving 2 years active duty, he went to work for the U.S. Postal Service in Los Altos, CA as a letter carrier. Jerry was recalled to active duty by president Kennedy in 1961 for 10 months. He returned to the postal service and retired after 40+ years of service. He was a member of the National Association of Letter Carriers. He was a Life member of the following organizations: American Legion, Naval Enlisted Reserve Association, and Fleet Reserve Association.

In August 1965 he married Dena Karen Wilkerson. Together they had two children, Scott Lee and Kristi Lynn. They were later divorced.

Jerry married Phyllis Hanna in Nov 2009 in Newport, OR. Jerry and Phyllis were together over 30 years. They enjoyed RVing through most of the United States. They also have done Genealogy for many years on both of their families. They were both members of the Republic Chapter of the Oregon Society of the Sons of the American Revolution.

He was preceded in death by his son Scott Oct 27, 1985, his former wife Dena, (former Mayor of Mountain View, CA) November 3, 2000, and his wife Phyllis Hanna March 23, 2018.  He is survived by his daughter Kristi Dees, granddaughter Madison Dees, and grandson Jack Dees - all of Mountain View, CA.; brother and sister-in-law Donald and Mary Jo Bonnell; 6 nieces and nephews, their spouses, and many great nieces and nephews.

Jerry and Phyllis will be buried at San Joaquin National Cemetery in Santa Nella, CA. A memorial service for Jerry (Grandpa) will be May 17, 2019 at 11:30am. In leu of flowers please make donations to Make A Wish Foundation.

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