Jerry was released from his earthly body on July 3, 2018. This past year had been a struggle for him and now he has received that new body that Jesus had promised him.

Jerry Michael Edson was born in Mt. Vernon on May 8, 1948 to Harold & Marilyn (Jungquist) Edson, the oldest of four children. At age 7, Jerry moved from Burlington to the family farm in Bow. Like most sons of farmers, Jerry grew up having many responsibilities and chores on the farm. He loved the outdoors and especially enjoyed fishing and duck hunting. He also developed a passion for hunting pheasant in Eastern Washington.  Upon graduation from BEHS in 1966 he left for WSU to earn a degree in Agricultural Economics. Following his college years he returned home to help and eventually take over the family farm.

While in high school Jerry met the love of his life, Veretta Roth. They became high school sweethearts and married after Jerry's sophomore year at WSU. They happily raised their family in Bow. He and Veretta were planning to celebrate 50 years of marriage this coming September. A favorite date night of theirs was to go to Skagit Speedway and often accompanying them was Jerry's younger siblings.  His early days as a fan at the Speedway sparked an interest that led to a 25 year passion as a sprint car driver. He was champion in 1978 and 79 and remained a fierce competitor throughout his time as a racer. He believed in "clean" racing and helping other drivers. Through his affiliation with the Speedway came many valued friendships. One of Jerry's favorite pastimes was engaging with others in casual conversations (and he was good at it). He especially enjoyed greeting and talking to visitors after the races.

After completing his days as a dairy farmer, Jerry went to work in another physically demanding job for the city of Mount Vernon. He worked there for 22 years before retiring due to health reasons. Following his retirement Jerry and Veretta took a summer trip to the Midwest. Jerry loved traveling and taking side trips on back roads visiting museums, county fairs, races- just about anything and everything.

In 1981 Jerry accepted Jesus Christ into his heart. He was baptized and joined Avon Church where he was a member for over 30 years until the church doors closed. He kept his faith calling on the Lord in his last days. Jerry was a loyal and loving father and husband. He was proud of all his children (Katie, Chris, Joshua and Caleb)and refused to leave this earth until his four children came to say their goodbyes. Each were able to spend time with him in his final days.

Jerry leaves behind his faithful and loving wife Veretta, along with daughter Katie and sons Chris (wife Jann), Joshua and Caleb. He is also survived by grandchildren Anna, Naomi and Andrew Edson, sister Jan (Dennis) Haddock, brother Jon (wife Nancy), mother Marilyn Johnson and step-father Earl Johnson, "adopted" family member Peter Brancroft , many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. He was preceded in death by his father Harold Edson, sister Jo Ellen Linnell and special great nephew Nick Hodgins. The family would like to give special thanks to longtime friend Dave Earlandson for his continued friendship and support as well as the staff at Hospice of the Northwest for their compassion and assistance.