HEYDORN, Gerald F. (Jerry)

The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona, Wednesday, July 01, 2015 Gerald F. (Jerry) Heydorn Jerry passed away on June 18, 2015 after a long battle with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. He was born Jan. 12, 1940 in Jerome, Arizona to Carl F. and Fairy E. Heydorn. Jerry spent his early years in Cottonwood before moving with his family to Humboldt. He attended Humboldt school and Prescott schools before enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 1957. He was stationed at Litchfield AFB before being assigned to the aircraft carrier, the U.S.S. Bennington. He did many tours overseas including Japan and the Philippines. He was on board when the first troops were dropped off in Vietnam. When he was in the Navy, he eloped with the love of his life, Dorthie Short. They made their home in Prescott after his Navy service ended. Jerry and Dorthie had a daughter Jeri Lynn and a son Joe. Jerry worked for the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) for over 33 years in construction as a surveyor. Upon his retirement from the state, Jerry did some consulting work for the City of Prescott and Yavapai County. Jerry enjoyed fishing, boating and RV-ing in Utah and Lake Powell. He bowled with his brothers, father and son-in-law. He also liked trips in the motorhome to Laughlin, Nevada. He enjoyed golfing with his brother Carl. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Patricia Boatman and younger brother Jimmy. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Dorthie; his daughter Jeri (Doug) Hamilton; and son, Joe. He is also survived by his brother Carl F. (Ella) Heydorn Jr.; and brother-in-law Orville (Patty) Short of Flagstaff. He leaves behind two granddaughters, Ciara and Abbey Hamilton; as well as several nieces and nephews. Family and friends will miss Jerry's sense of humor and that mischievous sparkle in his eyes. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to any Veteran's organization or hospice in Jerry's name. No services are scheduled. Information provided by survivors.