It is with great sadness that the family of Gerald Ordiniza announce his sudden passing on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at the age of 88.
Jerry was born in French Camp, California on May 17,1936. He joined the US Navy in 1955 and proudly served on the USS Midway (CV-41) until 1959. He lived in San Martin and went to work for Aristocrat Trailers and later was hired by Continental Telephone as an installer. Eventually retiring from Learning Services as a Maintenance Supervisor. Jerry soon met the love of his life and best friend, Delores Milla. They would marry in 1962.
Jerry would go on to settle down in Gilroy and start a beautiful family. Jerry and Delores welcomed son, Jerry Jr, in 1963 followed shortly by daughter Annamarie in 1964, then son Michael, later in 1973. Jerry was a devoted family man and friend to all. He loved to host barbecues, especially enjoying his Friday nights, where he welcomed his buddies to stop in for a beer. He was an active member of the community, he volunteered as a firefighter, and spent much of his free time happily helping friends and family with their many needs. He was a self-taught mason and landscaper. Jerry opened his heart and home to everyone he met, always welcoming an unplanned visit from all, and he deeply cherished each one of his friendships. Jerry was a man of many passions including in his younger years, softball, bowling, golfing, hunting, hosting fun events, keeping his yard pristine, and later on in life, meeting his donut shop buddies every morning at 6:00 a.m., enjoying pizza Wednesdays with his friends, caring for his grandchildren and visiting with his great-grandchildren.
Jerry will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 62 years, Delores; children, daughter Annamarie, son-in-law Frank, son Michael; grandchildren: Joshua and Sally, Jorden and Jennifer, Kendall and Cameron, Amara; great-grandchildren: Emma, Novalee, Avery, Kennedy, Nash; and numerous other family members and friends.
Jerry was predeceased by his son, Jerry Jr. and mother-in-law, Hope Milla. He will be deeply missed.
A funeral will be celebrated on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at Habing Family Funeral Home, 129 4th St, Gilroy. Public Viewing from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m., Service at 11:00 a.m. An interment will follow at Gavilan Hills Memorial Park, located at 1000 1st St, Gilroy with a reception to follow at Fortino Winery at 1:00pm.
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