Gerald B. Irwin

Gerald Byron Irwin, 95, of Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania passed away on January 1, 2022, joining his beloved wife of 73 years, Jean, in eternal rest. Born February 27, 1926, in Clearfield County, to Byron and Viola Irwin, Gerald was preceded in death by his sisters, Margaret Ruth (Irwin) Jamison, and Grace (Irwin) Bachelier. He is survived by his brother-in-law, Samuel Bachelier. As a decorated 23-year veteran, Gerald dedicated his life to the Armed Forces, having first served a four-year term in the Navy during World War II, followed by 19 years in the Army, where he retired as Chief Warrant Officer, with such notable accomplishments as working on the Nike Missile Program during his tenure. He, along with his wife and four daughters, lived throughout Europe and the US in service of our country, finally settling in Wyoming County, Pa. Gerald’s “retirement” would be short lived, however, as he soon joined the ranks of the first employed plant managers at Proctor and Gamble’s flagship location in Mehoopany, Pa, overseeing the engineering and maintenance divisions. He spent 20 years alongside many esteemed colleagues, finally retiring in 1986. As patriarch of the Irwin family, Gerald was preceded in death by his wife, Jean Irwin, his eldest daughter, Sandra Vieczorek, and his grandson Randal Vieczorek, and is survived by his son in law, Ronald Vieczorek of Tunkhannock, daughters and sons in law, Jeri Lynne and Anthony DiVittore of Hershey, Pa, Patricia and John Scranta of Tunkhannock, and Tamara and Brad Georgetti, of Tunkhannock. He was a proud grandfather to ten grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren, all of whom filled his home with chaos and love regularly throughout his lifetime. Jerry was a travel enthusiast. He and his wife made countless road trips West during their retirement together and were notorious for scenic drives throughout the mountains of Northeast Pa. Jerry was a Freemason, an active member of the American Legion, a tenacious Bridge player, a Penn State and Green Bay Packer fan, and a man who could fix just about anything under the sun. Integrity, loyalty, and dedication to service were paramount qualities of his character. His passing closes an era for his family that will be revered and celebrated forever. In lieu of flowers, Gerald’s family requests donations to The Dietrich Theatre, in honor of his daughter, Sandra, who dedicated many years of her life to its success. Contributions can be made on the Dietrich Theatre’s donation page on their website, https://www.dietrichtheater.com/dietrich.aspx?id=223. A private full military service at Arlington National Cemetery will be held on April 12, 2022 at 3:00 PM Arrangements and care entrusted to Sheldon-Kukuchka Funeral Home, Inc. 73 W. Tioga St. Tioga St. Tunkhannock, PA.