Gerald Joseph Fowler

Gerald Joseph Fowler, known to all as Jerry, “slipped the surly bonds of Earth” on December 19, 2025, at the age of 85 after a brief illness.

Jerry was born on July 3, 1940, in the Bronx, New York, to George and Florence Fowler, their only child. He later graduated from Fordham University in 1962, earning a Bachelor of Arts, an achievement that reflected his discipline, intellect, and determination.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Noreen; his much-loved children, Jerry Jr. (Jennifer), Michele Fowler-Kolbeck (James), Christine, and Michael; and his cherished grandchildren, Christopher, Westley, Matthew, Shilo, Shelby, Kennedy, Dylan, Jessica, and Collin. He also leaves behind his great-grandchildren, Karli, Liam, Seán, Ciara, Aurelia, and Axton as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Jerry proudly served his country as a fighter pilot in the United States Air Force for 22 years. During his distinguished military career, he flew the F-4 Phantom and the F-105 Wild Weasel and completed two tours in Vietnam. His valor and dedication were recognized with numerous honors, including the Distinguished Flying Cross (1 Oak Leaf Cluster), Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal (13 Oak Leaf Clusters), Vietnam Service Medal (4 Oak Leaf Clusters), and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, among many others. These decorations reflect a career marked by courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment to service. Following his retirement from the Air Force Jerry continued his love of aviation as a pilot for Eastern Airlines, forever at home in the skies. Those who knew him often felt that flight was not just his profession, but his calling one that lifted him beyond the limits of Earth, into the joy and freedom of the air, “where never lark or even eagle flew.”

Beyond his military life, Jerry was known for his sharp mind and love of playing bridge, a pastime he greatly enjoyed. He also cherished the time spent playing cribbage with his grandchildren, moments filled with laughter, competition, and connection. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose presence and guidance will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Jerry’s legacy of service, love for family, and quiet strength will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him and in the boundless skies he loved so dearly.

A memorial service will take place on January 17, 2026, at 11:00 am at Emmerson-Bartlett Memorial Chapel Redlands, CA. Interment with full military honors will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Gary Sinise Foundation.