Gerald "Jerry" Vanaskey (N8Bm)

GERALD “JERRY” VANASKEY (N8BM) August 24, 1942 – January 16, 2022 Gerald “Jerry” Vanaskey, at the age of 79, was welcomed into the loving arms of our Savior Jesus Christ. Jerry was born to John and Ann Vanaskey (Hunter) in Youngstown, Ohio, where he was raised. Upon graduation from high school, Jerry enlisted in the Air Force and spent the next six years serving our country, becoming highly skilled in the area of electronics and as a radar specialist. This would serve him well as he entered the next phase of his life. Upon his honorable discharge from the Air Force, Jerry was hired by International Business Machines (IBM). He had an illustrious career with IBM that spanned over 31 years, where he completed his tenure as a Senior Systems Engineer. Even upon retirement, Jerry continued to lend his computer expertise and knowledge for several more years as a consultant. Due to his love of all things electronic, in his twenties, Jerry became interested in Amateur Radio and became a licensed Amateur Radio Operator (“Hams”, as they are affectionately known) with the Federal Communications Commission. His call letters began as K8YQW, and he will now forever be known as N8BM. As with everything else Jerry did in his life, he poured himself wholeheartedly into the hobby. As the years went by, he won several outstanding ARRL (National Association for Amateur Radio) awards as an operator. One of the most incredible accomplishments was winning a world-wide DX contest, which he participated in Montserrat, West Indies. But for Jerry, it wasn’t about the accomplishments. It was about the life-long friendships gained amongst others with a common interest. He was always willing and ready to assist any newcomer into the field. Jerry unselfishly shared his passion and ability to diagnose and repair equipment, and would lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Jerry also enjoyed various automobiles throughout his life. There was an appreciation for the speed and mechanics of a highly crafted piece of machinery. In addition, he took pleasure in listening to jazz music from a wide array of artists. But most of all, Jerry was a faithful and stable presence in the lives of his family and those he held close to his heart. He loved deeply, listened intently, and provided his wisdom. As the Apostle Paul shared in 2 Timothy 4:7-8: “I have fought the fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day – and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for His appearing.” Jerry has completed his race. He will be missed beyond measure. Left to cherish Jerry’s memories and wait for reunification are his daughters Michele Shepler and Denise (Frank) DeLorenzo, along with grandsons Nicholas (Caitlin) Hilgeman, Frank DeLorenzo III, and Christopher DeLorenzo. Visitation will be held at Paquelet Funeral Home, Saturday, January 22 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. with the service to begin at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Caleb International Ministries.