Gerald "Jerry" James Vifian

Gerald James “Jerry” Vifian, 86, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away surrounded by his children on Thursday, November 18, 2021, at Country House Assisted Living in Cedar Rapids.  He was born on April 16, 1935, in Delaware County, the son of Fred and Fern (Rainbird) Vifian. Jerry was raised in Manchester and was a graduate of Manchester High School. He then attended trade school in Cedar Rapids.  Jerry served honorably in the United States Army.

On October 28, 1956, Jerry was united in marriage to Mary Ellen Falck. Four children were born to this union. Jerry worked on banking systems and did tech work on railroad electronics.

Jerry was an avid Iowa Hawkeye fan. He enjoyed supporting his son’s softball team and enjoyed woodworking. Jerry never said no to a cookie. He never missed an opportunity to attend one of his children’s and grandchildren’s activities.  Jerry loved his family and especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

Survivors include his three children, Teresa (Doug) Hollan of Alburnett, Kim (Tim) Murphy of Fort Myers, Florida, and Mike (Kelly) Vifian of Cedar Rapids; eight grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and                   several nieces and nephews.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Mary Ellen; a daughter, Ellen Marie; and two sisters, Patricia (Walter) Joy and Marilyn (Richard) Wenger.

Please join the family in celebrating Jerry’s love for the Hawkeyes by wearing University of Iowa apparel to the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

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