March 8, 1942 – October 2, 2025

Jerry Elmer Brown passed away on October 2, 2025 in the loving embrace of his family. He was 83.

Jerry was preceded in death by Maria (née Gianno), his best friend and beloved wife of 43 years, daughter Laura Rosenberg, son Baby Brown, parents Elmer M. Brown, Sr. and Louise Perry (née Effinger), sister Judy Brown and brother Elmer M. Brown, Jr. He is survived by his daughter Deanna and son in law Steven Micros of San Francisco, son-in law James Rosenberg (Laura), grandchildren Jillian Rae and Donald Jerry (DJ), and four great-grandchildren, who brought him much joy, Hunter, Zander, Levi and Cleo. He is also survived by sisters-in-law Frances Hammond and Mary Gianno, many nieces and nephews, and his sweet Rat Terrier, Annie.

Born in Telluride, Colorado, Jerry’s family worked their way west before settling in Shore Acres, CA. In the early 1960’s he and his father, an operating engineer, worked together on the construction of the third bore of the Caldecott Tunnel.

Jerry and Maria married in December 1962 and settled in her home town of Martinez where they raised their family. For several years they ran the family business, Gianno’s Fish and Bait Shop. Jerry also worked as a laborer at Concord Naval Weapons Station. He retired from Teamsters Union Local 315 after many years as a vacuum truck driver (environmental cleanup) with Erickson Trucking.

In days past Jerry loved camping, boating, water skiing, and motorcycle riding. An avid outdoorsman he enjoyed hunting, fishing and exploring new trails. For over 50 years the family cabin at Mt. Lassen was a special place best shared with family and friends.

Jerry and Maria retired to Penn Valley in 2004. They effortlessly made new friends, explored the Sierra Foothills, and joined the Roamin Angels Car Club. Jerry had a passion and innate ability to find and restore vintage cars. As a member of the club he found kindred spirits. A Ford man at heart, just days before his passing, he drove his newly restored 1955 Fairlane on a three day car rally to Fort Bragg with Sheila Hill, his long-time companion. A testament to how fully he lived his life ~ Jerry left nothing on the road!

Jerry was a member of the Nevada City Elks Lodge and volunteered at many Roamin Angels’ community outreach events. Jerry was a mentor to many and a friend to all. He will be remembered always for offering a helping hand, his keen wit, kind heart, Christmas fudge and beautiful blue eyes!

Jerry will be laid to rest on December 8, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. A graveside committal service will be held at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, 1965 Reliez Valley Road, Lafayette, CA. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Arborday.org or your preferred charity.