Gerald "Jerry" E. Willhoite

Gerald “Jerry” Willhoite, passed away at the Arkansas Valley Regional Medical Center, on March 27, 2010. He was born in La Junta, July 17, 1939 to Ralph & Regina Willhoite and remained a life-long resident.

Jerry attended La Junta schools, graduating in 1957. On May 14, 1960 he married Dianne Murray his high school sweetheart at the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in La Junta. That same year he began his working career with the Santa Fe Railroad as a car man and retired in 1997as a car inspector for the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad. He was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe/St. Patrick Parish.

Jerry enjoyed the Colorado mountains, beautiful sunsets, working in his shop, and spring so he could start preparing his garden. He also loved all the family pets, especially his current dog, Dixie, who accompanied him on his daily visits of La Junta friends.

He is survived by his wife, Dianne; brother, Bill of Pueblo, brothers and sister-in-laws, Bob and Pat Drange of Denver, and John and Donna Davidson of La Junta. Four nephews and two nieces, including Ryan (Tina) Willhoite of Swink.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife’s parents.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Guadalupe/St. Patrick Parish by Father Alphonsus Ihuoma on Wednesday, March 31, 2010, at 10:00 a.m. with burial following at Calvary Cemetery.

Peacock-Larsen Funeral Home and Arkansas Valley Crematory is in charge of local arrangements.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Arkansas Valley Hospice Assoc., P.O. Box 408, La Junta, CO, 81050 or to a charity of choice direct or through the funeral home.