In Loving Memory of Gerald T. “Jerry” Chapin
October 24, 1938 – June 9, 2025
It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Gerald T. Chapin, a proud native of Elko, Nevada, and a lifelong resident of the Northern Nevada region. Affectionately known as “Jerry” by family, friends, and his beloved community, he departed this life on the late afternoon of June 9, 2025, following a sudden and fatal heart attack while driving his ATV through the rugged terrain he loved so dearly.
Jerry was born on October 24, 1938, in the heart of Elko, where the spirit of the old West still thrived and where he would come to build an extraordinary life rooted in resilience, tradition, and a deep love for the land. His life story was one of dedication—dedication to his family, to his work, and to the enduring values of honesty, grit, and generosity.
From a young age, Jerry was drawn to the outdoors. He grew up exploring the high desert hills and wide-open spaces of Northern Nevada, and as he matured, his love for the land never waned. Whether he was hunting, fishing, camping with his grandkids, or simply riding his ATV to check on a distant fenceline or enjoy the sunset, he found peace and meaning in nature. It was fitting, though heartbreaking, that he passed doing what he loved in the place he considered sacred ground.
A proud graduate of Elko High School, Jerry went on to work in a number of fields over the years, each one reflecting his adaptability and strong work ethic. From ranch hand to miner, and later as a respected equipment operator, Jerry wore many hats, and wore them all well. He was the kind of man you could count on—whether it was to fix a broken down tractor, lend a hand during a hard winter, or share wisdom born of decades of hands-on experience. His tireless spirit left its mark on the land and the people he worked alongside.
Beyond his professional life, Jerry was a pillar of strength and compassion within his community. He had a quiet demeanor, but a fierce loyalty to those he loved. Friends remember him as a man of his word, someone who didn’t say much unless it mattered, and whose presence was grounding and reassuring. His love of storytelling—especially tales from “back in the day”—was a treasured gift to younger generations, passing on not just entertainment, but history, pride, and perspective.
Jerry was also a devoted family man. He was a loving husband, a strong and patient father, a doting grandfather, and a cherished great-grandfather. His family was his pride and joy. He taught his children and grandchildren the value of hard work, the beauty of silence in the open country, and the importance of standing up for what’s right, even when it’s hard. His legacy lives on in them—in their hands, in their hearts, and in every story told around the campfire.
He is survived by his beloved wife of many years, [Name], his children [Names], grandchildren [Names], and great-grandchildren [Names], along with extended family members and dear friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, [Parents’ Names], and his brothers and sisters who passed before him.
A celebration of Jerry’s life will be held at [location] on [date], where family, friends, and community members are welcome to share memories, honor his legacy, and say farewell to a man whose quiet strength and unwavering integrity will never be forgotten.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to [local charity, veterans’ organization, or outdoor conservation group], causes that reflect Jerry’s lifelong values and passions.
As we mourn the passing of Gerald T. Chapin, we also give thanks for the life he lived—a life that enriched so many others, shaped by the rugged beauty of Nevada, and carried forward by the people who loved him. Ride easy, Jerry. May your next journey be as boundless as the Nevada skies you loved.