Obituary of Gerald J. Gessinger

Gerald "Jerry" J. Gessinger, of Bleecker, New York, took his final journey to his secret pond on August 14, 2023. Jerry was born with a fishing pole in hand on April 7, 1929, in Sprakers, NY, the son of Henry and Leah Gessinger. He attended school in Bleecker and Gloversville.

From 1972 to 1988 Jerry was employed by Coleco Industries as a truck driver, retiring in 1990. Previously he had been a self-employed logger.

An avid outdoorsman, Jerry enjoyed hunting deer, fishing for trout, and snowmobiling. He took pride in his mechanical ability and was always willing to help a neighbor make needed repairs. No payment was necessary.

Jerry was a pioneer dirt track race car driver at Fonda and White Beach (four wins!) Speedways driving car 27E.

A proud member of the Army National Guard for over twenty years, Jerry retired in 1976 as sergeant of the motor pool. He was a charter member of the Bleecker Community Church where he served as trustee and also ushered parishioners for many years. Jerry belonged to several snow machine clubs and was a past member of the Bleecker Historical Society, serving as vice president.

On June 19, 1948, at the Bleecker Methodist Church, Jerry was united in marriage to the best catch of his life, Audrey Adams Gessinger. They enjoyed 75 years together.

Jerry is survived by his wife; sons Alan Gessinger (Barbara) and Raymond Gessinger (Melanie); five grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by a son, Daniel, and a sister, Eleanor Pritchard.

The family will receive relatives and friends from 11 am to 12 noon Friday, August 18th at the Bleecker Community Church, 503 County Route 112, Gloversville, where a Funeral Service will follow at 12 noon.

Interment will follow at Bleecker Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to the Bleecker Community Church, 503 County Route 112, Gloversville, NY 12078.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Betz, Rossi, Bellinger and Stewart Family Funeral Homes -Gloversville.

Online condolences may be made at www.brbsfuneral.com