Jerry Nicholas Banta Jerry was born January 14, 1941 in Everett, WA to Theodore and Evelyn Banta; he passed away December 2, 2015 in Mount Vernon.  Jerry graduated from Burlington Edison High School in 1959, he then went into the US Army stationed at Fort Ord, California.  Following his service he came home and worked with his dad at B&D grocery and volunteered with the Burlington Fire Department.  He married Susan Eddy in June of 1962. In 1969 he helped his dad open the meat market-Banta's Market.  In 1973 he started his career with the Mount Vernon Fire Department, becoming Lieutenant in 1977, Captain in 1978 and Assistant Chief 1989 until his retirement, December 4, 1999.  Jerry loved the outdoors especially taking the kids to teach them how to fish and hunt. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Sue; daughters: Kerry (Victor) Martinez, Jodie (Jerry) Swanson and Julie Davis; grandchildren: Tyler and Teasa Martinez, A.J. Steen and Jacksen Davis; sister: Sandy Walden; mother in law: Anolea "Sis" Eddy; many nieces, nephews, cousins and special friends.  He was preceded in death by his mother and father and grandson Matthew Martinez.  In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Skagit Valley College Fire Trust Account, 2405 E College Way, Mount Vernon, WA 98273.  An open house will be held Thursday, December 10, 2015, 3:00 pm -6:00 pm at the Big Lake Fire Department, 16818 West Big Lake Blvd, Mount Vernon, WA 98274.