Jerry Lee Ferris, age 73, of Palmer, Alaska, passed away peacefully at his home on July 5, 2026.

Jerry was born on September 21, 1952, in Onawa, Iowa, to Edward Lee and Darlene Bernice (Black) Ferris. Raised in a close-knit family, he learned early the importance of hard work, integrity, faith, and putting family first; values that remained the foundation of his life.

Jerry's journey to Alaska began while serving his country in the United States Army. What started as a military assignment soon became home, and Alaska remained the place he loved for the rest of his life. There, he built a life alongside the love of his life, Pamela, creating a home filled with love, laughter, and family.

Jerry dedicated more than 30 years of his career to Alaska's North Slope (retiring in 2017), where he worked as a Turbine Engineer. He was known as a hardworking man who took great pride in providing for those he loved. Whether at work, at home, or helping someone in need, Jerry could always be counted on for his strong work ethic, practical wisdom, and willingness to lend a hand.

Family was Jerry's greatest joy. He treasured every moment spent with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He especially loved family gatherings, sharing stories, watching his family grow, and celebrating life's milestones together. Those who knew Jerry will remember his quiet strength, dependable nature, generous heart, and unwavering devotion to his family.

Jerry appreciated the simple things in life. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, taking scenic drives, watching car races, and could often be found working on a project around the house or in the yard. He believed life's greatest blessings were found in family, friendship, and time spent together.

Jerry is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Pamela Ferris of Palmer, Alaska; his children, Karena (Ron) Shugak of Anchorage, Alaska; Todd (Jennifer) Petersen of Logan, Iowa; and Todd (Angie) Ferris of Wasilla, Alaska; his grandchildren, Jessica, HaiLee, Kaitlyn, Lily, and Logan; his great-grandchildren; his sisters, Linda (Jim) Jensen of Herman, Nebraska, and Jolene Ferris of Little Sioux, Iowa; his brother, Deacon Kent Ferris, O.F.S. (Lori Ferris, O.F.S.) of Muscatine, Iowa; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Lee and Darlene Bernice Ferris, and his brother, Bradley Edward Ferris.

Jerry's legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the example he set through hard work, humility, kindness, and faith, and the countless lives he touched throughout his life. His quiet strength, unwavering devotion to his family, and generous spirit will never be forgotten. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Honoring Jerry's final wishes, he will be cremated. His ashes will be scattered throughout the Alaska landscapes he loved so deeply and will also be laid to rest at a later date in Little Sioux Cemetery in Little Sioux, Iowa, alongside his father, mother, and brother. In lieu of flowers or monetary donations, the family asks that you contribute to your favorite local charity in his honor.

~~~from obituary courtesy of the Nebraska Washington County Genealogical Society. Newspaper clippings on file in the Public Library, Blair, Nebraska~~~

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