Jerry Dean Wessel

1947 – 2025

Jerry Dean Wessel, age 77, passed away suddenly on March 6, 2025. He was born in Topeka, Kansas in 1947 to Lloyd and Lauraine Wessel and moved to Rialto, California with his family in 1951. Jerry graduated from Eisenhower High School in 1965 and was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1966. He served with honor until he was discharged after being wounded by a sniper while stationed in Korea.

Jerry made Lake Havasu City, Arizona his home in 1994, where he found joy in fishing and spending time on the river—his favorite place to be.

He is survived by his three sisters: Carolyn Wessel of North Carolina, Sandra Wessel of Lake Havasu City, Arizona, and Connie Goe of Crestline, California. He leaves behind his loving daughter, Bonnie Gordon of Fontana, California; his son, Jeremy Wessel of Rialto, California; and three cherished grandchildren: Shyann Lungren, Andrew Gordon (and his wife Stephanie), Nathan Gordon; and one great-granddaughter, Ruby Gordon. He also leaves behind, two nephews and four nieces.

Jerry was a beloved father, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. To his family, he was a steady presence, a source of strength, and their greatest role model. To many others, he was a loyal friend, a fishing buddy, a dedicated coworker, and someone you could always count on. His humor, kindness, and unshakable spirit left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

We invite all who knew and loved Jerry to share pictures and memories as we honor his life. In keeping with his wishes, we will remember him with laughter, stories, and smiles.

A service will be held at Riverside National Cemetery, with date and time to be announced.