Gerald Irving Dours

Our dear father, grandfather, uncle, brother and friend Gerald Irving Dours passed away on Saturday, April 12, 2025, age 86. He was born on October 8, 1938 in New Orleans, Louisiana to Felix Joesph Dours, Jr. and Gertrude Ann Eppling Dours.

Jerry attended Jesuit High School then graduated from Fortier High School in New Orleans, LA before attending the University of Southwest Louisiana in Lafayette.

A blind date is where Jerry met his future wife Mary Ann. By their second date, which was a long car ride home to New Orleans via a LSU game in Baton Rouge, Jerry knew she was the gal for him. They were married at St. Catherine of Siena in Metairie, LA on December 28, 1964. After becoming members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, they were sealed for time and all eternity in the Mesa Arizona Temple in 1975. Jerry and Mary Ann enjoyed 60 glorious years of marriage and were blessed with four children, eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Jerry was a dedicated husband, father and friend. An easy going personality matched his thick New Orleans accent that always provoked questions to those unfamiliar with its origin. He worked for nearly 60 years as a machinist and welder of various platforms that provided an impressive skill set in this field applicable to aerospace, heavy machinery, submarines and much more. As an entrepreneur he made an innovative contribution to governing fuel flow of carburetors. After selling his business he moved the family to the Seattle area of Kirkland, Washington where he worked the next 40 years specializing in pneumatic, hydraulic and air cylinders. His experience, ability and demeanor was valued and appreciated there by many. He also served six years in the Louisiana Army National Guard as a fire direction control specialist with the 141st Field Artillery obtaining the rank of sergeant.

Most important was his virtue of being a rock for his family, friends and neighbors to rely on anytime they needed it. Always ready to assist day or night, he was the one who was called when things got tough. An excellent teacher he passed on his wisdom of mechanics, sports, history, music, etc to many. He loved representing his hometown of New Orleans and sharing all the good times he lived growing up there surrounded by the culture of excellent food and music. Jambalaya and Bread Pudding are the two dishes he took great pride in preparing and sharing for his circle. Fats Domino, Dr John and The Dirty Dozen Brass Band among his favorite artists.

Jerry is survived by his children: Jennifer (Shane) Christensen, Patrick and Phillip. Eight grandchildren: Abby, Cade, Madeline, Jack, Megan, Claire, Brady and Cael; three great grandchildren: Atlas, Kalum and Jovi. He is also survived by his brother Richard. He was preceded in death by his parents, Felix and Gertrude, his wife Mary Ann, daughter Susan and sister Patricia.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, April 19 at the Washington City Cemetery located at 300 Parkview Drive in Washington, Utah at 11AM.