Gerald E. 'Jerry' Wilson, 72

Born in Dayton, Ohio, on Oct. 9, 1943. Passed away on Aug. 19, 2016, in Spokane, Wash.

He moved to California with his family as a young man where he served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War, but was medically discharged prior to deployment. After leaving the Air Force, he married and moved to Southern Oregon, where started his family. He worked many years in the logging and construction industry before moving to North Idaho in July 1981. He played a key role in the development of Silverwood Theme Park in Athol, Idaho, and spent his happiest years working there until his retirement in mid-2000.

He is survived by his daughters, Lesa Webb of Spokane and Darci (Tom) Rickert of Strawberry Plains, Tenn.; grandchildren Rhiannon, Tara, Tim, Krystle, Amber and Jade; great-grandchildren Audrey, Connor and Grayson; his sister, Judy (Lou) Smith of Payson, Ill.; niece Kris and nephew Jeffrey. In addition to numerous in-laws, nieces and nephews from his previous marriage.

A private memorial service was held on Friday, Sept. 2, 2016, at Silverwood Theme Park.