August 25, 1948 – August 16, 2025
Gerald Richard Zylstra
On Saturday August 16, 2025, Jerry Zylstra, 76, of Lynnwood, WA passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. Jerry was born in Portland Oregon on August 25, 1948, and moved to Oak Harbor, WA in 1950 where he graduated high school. He attended college at Skagit River College, University of Washington, and Central Washington University where he earned a BA in Engineering. He married Karen in May of 1992, gaining three teenage daughters. He worked at Eldec for 25 years before semi-retiring in 2001. After retiring he spent his time helping others and spending time with family.
Jerry was a kind and gentle soul, known for his compassion and unwavering support. He loved airplanes, fishing, bird hunting, water skiing and singing in the church choir. Family was especially important to Jerry. He spent his summers working on the farm with his Uncle Lowell. He earned the nickname “Papa Taxi” as he loved all his time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren even if was just carting them around.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents Donald and Jean Zylstra and grandson Tyler Jameson. He is survived by his wife Karen Zylstra, children Brandi (Darrin) Wallace, Heather (Sean) Jameson, Bimmie Logue, grandchildren Trittney Northey, Taylor (Justin) Sharber, Harley Logue, Tiffany Jameson, Tommy Wallace, 3 great grandchildren Zane Combs, Kinsey Sharber and Zayla Combs, sisters Marilyn Hill, Donna (Leon) Sandberg, and several cousins, nieces and nephews.
Jerry, you are now at peace singing with the angels, but you will live on forever in our hearts. We love you so much.
The memorial service will be held Saturday September 13th, 2025, at 1pm at Alderwood Community Church, 3403 Alderwood Mall Blvd, Lynnwood, WA 98036. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Alzheimer’s Association or American Cancer Society in Jerry Zylstra’s name.
The post first appeared on Barton Family Funeral Service.