Jerome "Jerry" Richard Kuhn

Jerry's early life was spent in Bismarck, ND where he attended St. Mary's High School, graduating in 1961. Soon after, he embarked on a journey of more than 25 years of service to his country by joining the U.S. Navy. His dedication to his country was evident in his role as Fire Control Chief Petty Officer. Jerry operated advanced weaponry and maintained computer equipment essential for national defense. His expertise in combat weapons and direction systems made him a valued asset to the U.S. Navy. While serving in the Navy he earned many medals and citations. He continued to serve his country while working for a private company who contracted with the U.S. Navy.

Jerry married Colleen Trager and they spent many happy times together. They lived many places through the years, including Illinois, California and Hawaii, eventually settling in Durham, North Carolina after retirement.

The loss of Jerry is felt deeply by his family, friends, and those who had the privilege of serving alongside him. He will be remembered as a loving family member, a committed serviceman, and a steadfast friend.

Jerry was predeceased by his beloved wife, Colleen, whom he missed dearly. His parents, Jacob Kuhn and Kathryn (Miltenberger) Kuhn, siblings Shirley Kuhn, JoAnn Plum, and Juli Ludwig. Also preceding him in death were his brothers-in-law, Lowell Plum, Thomas Bement and Donald Ludwig, along with his nephew Thomas Bement.

His memory will continue to live on through his surviving family. Jerry will be remembered fondly by his sisters, Joyce Bement and Justine "Tina" Malard, his brother-in-law, Elroy Malard, foster brother Art Jacque, his nephews Lowell (Maxine) Plum, Ken (Kay) Plum, Mike (Susie) Plum, David (Barb) Plum, Keith Plum, Steve (Paula) Bement, Mark Ludwig, and Dale Ludwig and Ronan Malard, together with his nieces Sandy (Karl) Fahlstrom, Diane Bement, Lynette (Craig) Johnson, and Becky (Steve) Homes, as well as many great nephews and nieces. Jerry is also survived by his “adopted” family including Kathy Olley, his special friend, Kathy’s son Jesse Olley and her grand daughters Violet and Rosemary Olley. We will all remember Jerry with love and appreciation.

Special Thanks to the Home Instead care team and Duke Hospice staff for providing loving care and companionship to Jerry.

Jerry has requested a military funeral with burial at sea near Hawaii, by the U.S. Navy.