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Jerome “Jerry” Lichtwald arrived screaming into this world on August 26, 1936, in Riverside, California, to the late Leroy C. Lichtwald and Helene Hannam Lichtwald. He left the building on February 5, 2024, after a sudden decline in his health. He was at the ripe young age of 87. He is now stress-free and at peace.
He is survived by his loving “wifey” of 61 years, Sandra Peacock Lichtwald. He is also survived by his daughters Lori Maederer and husband David of Dibble and Juli Bell of Newcastle. Five grandchildren, Jacquilynn Ruiz (Tyler); Zachary Maederer (Skyla); Karalynn Maederer; Kailea Bell and Chase Turner. Three great-grandchildren, Jocelyn, Kaiden, and Tristan, all made his life better with their visits.
Jerry had a soft heart for wildlife and animals in general – they all had his affection.
Jery volunteered for service in the United States Navy in 1958, and not too long in, he realized he didn’t much enjoy being bossed around. He only stuck it out for four years. Before his discharge, however, he got to see the world, being stationed in Hawaii before and during statehood, and then, he was released after the government exchanged a few ribbons and thanked him for his service.
After arriving on shore, he located his parents in Phoenix and decided to squat with them until he could figure out his next move. It was then that he met Sandra Peacock who lived two doors down, and he fell in love with her. Eventually, she rescued him, and the two of them got married in October 1962. They settled in Phoenix, Arizona, and began building a beautiful family together.
After deciding that he had had enough of the hot Arizona weather, he uprooted his growing family and moved to Newcastle, Oklahoma in 1980. There, he became an ardent supporter of OU, a lover of crossword puzzles and science fiction, and an enthusiastic fan of Westerns; some might say a “Westernaholic.” Despite being a kid at heart, he would stay up all night playing video games, much to the annoyance of his beloved wife. Jerry was always there for his children, supporting them in all their activities, and he never missed a single game or event with his grandkids. One thing that can be said about Jerry is that he was extremely proud of every one of them.
After retirement, Jerry found joy in driving the activity bus for Newcastle HS for several years. He completely retired from all activities in 2010.
There will be a private family celebration of Jerry's life. We kindly ask everyone who knew him to celebrate his memory by performing acts of kindness. Instead of sending flowers, Jerry would have appreciated it if you could do an unexpected act of kindness for someone who is less fortunate. You may leave a little extra tip at the restaurant, buy food for the car behind you in the drive-thru lane, or get a meal for a military member (without revealing who paid for it). This is a more affordable gesture than flowers, yet the impact on someone's life can be priceless.
Many will deeply and sorely miss Jerry. He leaves behind memories of love, laughter, and a life well-lived.
Arrangements are under the direction of Eisenhour Funeral Home, Blanchard, Oklahoma. Online obituary and guestbook are available at www.eisenhourfh.com
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