DRAEGERT, Jerry Lee

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona ~ 08/02/2005 Jerry Lee Draegert, 74, silently and peacefully slipped away from his home on earth into life eternal, July 29, 2005. His family was present when he left. He was 74 years old. He was the only son of Wayne and Nevada (Vada) Draegert. Jerry was born March 13, 1931 in Monmoth, Ill. His father was a tenant farmer and his childhood was spent moving all over Illionis. He attended 21 different grade schools during that time. In 1952, Jerry joined the U.S. Marine Corp where he served for almost 13 years. He was a veteran of the Korean War and also served as contact communications. His favorite time while in the service was the time he spent in Hawaii. He often told stories of that time. After his stint with the Marines, he spent the next 20 or so years in telephone communications, traveling and living in several different states as he contracted to different companies for his services. He was contracted to the local telephone company when he met Jo (Brannon) Unruh in 1978. They were married in 1979. Jerry loved camping and spent many weekends in his camper on some far lakeshore, just basking in the quiet peace of nature. Most of the time he had his faithful dog companion, Muffy with him until she died from old age. Lately his companion became another dog, a schnauzer mix he called Shadow. In his latter years he was employed at Valley Auto Parts and as a part time employee at Burnham-Jewkes Mortuary. He loved eagles and was an avid collector, making gift-buying an easy task until the collection became so large it was hard to find one unique that he didn't already have. For the past few years he has been involved with Rim Country Cruisers, a classic car club in the White Mountains. Jerry loved old cars and when his wife badgered him to become involved, he surprised her by doing so with enthusiasm. He had two older model cars, which he was slowly restoring. Jerry's survivors include his wife Jo, Springerville; son Mathew (Carey) Unruh, Tyler, Texas; and daughter Amanda Carrow, Edmond, Okla.; and six grandchildren as well as numerous members of his extended family by marriage. His parents preceded him in death. A memorial service will be held for Jerry Saturday, Aug. 7 at 2 p.m. at the First Southern Baptist Church, Springerville. Burnham-Jewkes Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.