GERALD ARTHUR SPERLING
December 29, 1939 — August 7, 2021
Gerald Arthur Sperling, passed away on August 7, 2021 at the age of 81. He is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 64 years (together 67), Rosalie Sperling. Together they had five children, Cindy Small Taylor (husband Bill Taylor), Candice Drummond, Ted Sperling, Penny Schlager, and Perry Sperling (wife Lisa Sperling). They have 13 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Rosella and Fred Sperling; brothers, Tony and Terry Sperling; sister, Jackie Lopez; and grandson, Jered Sperling.
Jerry was born in Lodi, CA on December 29, 1939. He graduated from Lodi High School in 1957. He loved and excelled in many athletics including baseball, basketball, football (#53 & #35), and track. After high school he continued playing baseball for the Lodi Legion baseball team with his brother Tony. He married his high school sweetheart Rosalie Lynn on May 11, 1957 in Reno, NV. He then followed in his fathers footsteps as a carpenter and floor layer and owned Contract Interiors from 1980 until his retirement in 2005. Jerry was an amazing and generous father, grandfather, sibling and friend.
Other than his family, his second love was fishing & hunting. He owned several different boats throughout his life and would fish almost every day. He was an avid outdoorsman and would look forward to his annual hunting trips with his brothers. The Truckee River remained one of his all time favorite fishing and camping spots throughout his life and will remain a special place for his family. He was also a talented writer and poet, writing several unpublished short stories and hundreds of poems to Rosalie over the past 67 years. He was a hardworking man who took great pride in providing for his family. Other than fishing and hunting, Jerry enjoyed weekly golf with his friends and watching the San Francisco Giants and the San Francisco 49ers play.
“You will remain in our hearts forever. There will never be any other person who can replace you and the great love we have for you.” Until we meet again. Your loving family.
Celebration of Life to be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family asks that donations be made in Jerry’s name to Lodi Boosters of Boys/Girls Sports. Email infolodibobs@gmail.com or contact Kurt Anderson at 209 642 5093.
Please sign the guest book at lodinews.com/ guestbook.