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Gerald Dewayne Richter passed away peacefully in his home on January 6th, 2026, after a three-year-long journey with dementia and congestive heart failure at the age of 91. He was always a kind and compassionate person who always expressed gratitude for his long life which was full of diverse experiences and his love for family and God.
Jerry as most knew him by, was born in Buhl, Idaho, on April 21st, 1934, to Clare and Eva Richter. He spent most of his early years in Sweet Home, Oregon and later enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1953 during the Korean War.
He met his first wife, Betty, and were married in 1954. Together they had six children.
He met his second wife, Maxine, who already had four children of her own. They married on December 31st, 1971. Together, they had a very large family of ten children. The next 50 years were spent raising their combined family together and led a very happy life.
Jerry worked for the Plywood Association and other areas of that industry for many years. Jerry and Maxine spent their golden years in Tillamook, Oregon and enjoyed traveling and frequenting casinos. In his almost 92 years here on this earth, Jerry lived a life filled to the brim with family, friends and experienced an abundance of love and grace.
Jerry was preceded in death by his little sister Dory, his brother Dale, both his parents, his first wife, Betty, and his second wife, Maxine. He was also preceded in death by his granddaughter, Tavia McNeal, grandson, J.C. Thompson, and grandson, Shaun Hilton.
Jerry is survived by his brother, Dean Richter, and his sister, Ione Whittney and also his children: Dory Thompson Her children, Cary, David Robert, and Corina. Dana Aufdermauer (Don) their children, Kris, Natalie, and Taylor. Doug Richter (Laura) their children, Crissa and Jennifer. Denice Richter Her daughter, Deanna. David Richter (Kalcy) their children, Christopher, Dena, Brittany, Jeremy, Eva, Hazel and Gabriel. Dixie McNeal Her children, Amanda, Koty, and Chance. Ron Rush (Paulette) Their children, Toby and Teddy. Tammy Nelson (Tim) Their children, Jennifer, and Melissa. Laurie Fernandes (Greg) their children, Kelsee, Garrett and Kaylee. Rich Rush (Tammy) their children, Bethany and Ephraim.
And numerous great-grandchildren.
Please join us for a Celebration of Life on March 14th, 2026, at 11 am at the Christian Center Church in Tillamook on Marloff Loop Road.