Ret. US Navy Capt. Donald “Don” Aikman Gerrish, Jr., died January 5, 2022, at the age of 85 in Orange Park, FL. Born in Terre Haute, IN, he was the son of Donald A. Gerrish, M.D., and Grace James Gerrish. He served in the US Navy from 1957 – 1989. During his successful career, he enjoyed being a pilot flying as a test pilot and carrier pilot. He was Commanding Officer of VA-87 and of AFWTF, the Atlantic Fleet Weapons Range Training Facility in Roosevelt Roads, Puerto Rico. He taught at the Naval War College in Newport, RI and, after he retired, at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
Don is survived by his wife of 61 years Paquita Ann “Ann,” children Deborah “Debbie” Ann Hutt (Richard) and Donald “Chip” A. Gerrish, III (Erin). He had four grandchildren – Geoffrey Gerrish (Riley), Lauren Gerrish, Lee Hutt (Jenn), and Davis Hutt. He also was a great grandfather to Madison Gerrish.
Burial will be at a later date in keeping with the family’s wishes. Memorial donations can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.
