GERALD FIKSE
On the evening of December 6th, 2014 Gerald Fikse, age 83, passed away peacefully in his sleep at Careage of Whidbey in Coupeville, Washington.
Gerald was born on December 21, 1930 in Iowa to Reverend Edward and Ella Fikse. Gerald moved to Oak Harbor as a teenager and married local girl and love of his life, Janet Vander Werfhorst, in 1951.
Gerald and Janet opened Gerald’s Jewelry in 1958. They worked happily, side by side, for nearly 50 years until retiring and passing the reins of the family business on to their son Dave.
Gerald enjoyed golfing, gardening and tending the roses in his yard. During their retirement, Gerald and Janet were able to travel a bit to visit distant brothers and sisters. Gerald had 7 brothers and sisters and they, along with their spouses, were all able to make it for a very memorable and special cruise to Alaska 10 years ago.
Gerald and Janet were extremely loving Grandparents and they loved to attend their grandson’s baseball games. From t-ball though High School, they’d set up their folding lawn chairs and cheer from the sidelines. At age 75, Gerald searched through the woods to find his grandson’s first grand slam home run ball. Gerald had a huge smile on his face as he proudly tossed the ball to the dugout.
Gerald was also an avid Seahawks and Mariners fan. He could tell you about every player, quarter and inning and he watched every game. As a resident of Regency in Oak Harbor, he wore his Seahawks 2014 Superbowl jacket proudly, even on warm summer days. He also loved to sing to the residents and staff. Even in his last days, he would sing hymns in his deep baritone voice with the nurses at Careage.
After 62 years of marriage, Janet Passed away in March, 2013. But, Gerald is survived by his son, Dave and daughter-in-law Jane, his grandsons, Josh, Matt and Ben, of Oak Harbor and his Daughter Jerilyn of Bonney Lake. His Brothers, Everett, Ed and Gene Fikse, of California were able to come one last time this past September to see their brother. He is also survived by his sisters Grace, Eleanore and Jeannette along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
A Memorial Service for Gerald will be held at Whidbey Presbyterian Church in Oak Harbor on December 15th at 2:00 pm. A Private Family Graveside Service will precede at Maple Leaf Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made in Gerald’s name to Whidbey Presbyterian Church, 1148 SE 8th Ave., Oak Harbor. Family and friends are encouraged to share memories and condolences at www.whidbeymemorial.com.

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