Jerry “Kneehigh” Edward Chadwick passed away in his sleep on Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2022, at his home in Montesano. He was 78.

Jerry was born on Oct. 26, 1943, to Marvin and Lillian (Gray) Chadwick in Bismarck, North Dakota. The family moved to Grays Harbor early in his childhood, later settling in Montesano where he graduated in 1962. After graduation he served in the U.S. Navy from 1964-1966 on the USS Peacock (MSC-198) during the Vietnam War.

Jerry married Ellen Sackrider on May 12, 1973, and they made their home and raised their family in Montesano where they became fixtures at Montesano High School sporting events. He was part of the Montesano football “Chain Gang” for several years.

Jerry drove truck for Weyerhaeuser for 34 years, retiring in 2010. In retirement, he took great pride in maintaining the VFW Park in Montesano for events. He held several board positions for the Montesano VFW, including a stint as Commander and most recently served on the Board of Trustees.

Jerry loved to strike up a conversation with just about anyone and loved to brag about his grandkids and great-grandkids. He had quite a successful record for his many card games played with family and friends.

Jerry is preceded in death by his wife, parents and sister Judy Baker. He is survived by his son Brian (Trish) Chadwick of Moses Lake; daughter Ranee (Doug) Farmer of Peoria, Arizona; brother Jim (Janet) Chadwick of Grants Pass, Oregon; sister Janice (George) Middleton of Montesano; four grandchildren: Scott Rohr, Chelsea Rohr, Shaydon Farmer and Baylie Farmer; two great-grandchildren: Levi and Hunter; and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, Oct. 16 at 1 p.m. at the VFW Park, 93 State Route 107 in Montesano. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Jerry’s name to the Montesano VFW Post 2455, Attn: Leann Pugsley, 315 S. Main St., Montesano, WA 98563.