Gerard J. “Jerry” Probst passed away peacefully in his sleep following a courageous battle with metastatic cancer. A true man of strength, Jerry dedicated himself to his country, serving in Vietnam War, earning the National Defense Service Medal, a Vietnam Service Medal, a Vietnam Campaign Medal, and even the prestigious Bronze Star Medal.

Born in Rochester, New York, Jerry eventually made the move to Kansas City, Missouri, where he began a successful career in finance. A true “numbers guy,” he found great satisfaction in financial planning, balance sheets, budgets, and the precision of mathematics. His exceptional work ethic, meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering dedication were evident in everything he did. Whether at work, volunteering, or tackling everyday tasks, Jerry believed in doing every job with excellence.

After retirement, Jerry fulfilled his dream of living full-time in Florida, settling in the Spruce Creek Fly-In Community in Port Orange. Aviation had been a lifelong passion. He earned his pilot’s license as a young man and took great pride in owning and flying his airplanes. He was an active member of the Spruce Creek community, faithfully serving for many years on the Finance Committee and as Treasurer on the Property Owners Association Board.

Jerry was a devoted and faithful Catholic whose relationship with God shaped every aspect of his life. He prayed daily, often throughout the day, and sought to live a Christ-centered life marked by kindness, humility, and service to others. He was a parishioner of Our Lady of Hope Catholic Church in Port Orange, Florida, and St. James Catholic Church in Liberty, Missouri.

Although he loved Florida and the life he built there, Jerry never lost his deep love for his hometown of Rochester, New York. He treasured every opportunity to return home to visit family and lifelong friends. His bond with his beloved twin sister, his brothers, and his many nieces, nephews, and their families brought him immense joy.

Jerry found beauty in the world around him. Photography was one of his greatest passions, and he had an extraordinary ability to capture art in everyday moments. Whether photographing nature, scenic landscapes, architecture, vintage subjects, or family gatherings, he saw beauty where others often overlooked it. For many years he maintained his own darkroom, developing his photographs by hand. He greatly admired the work of photographers Ansel Adams and Clyde Butcher, as well as artist Simon Bull.

Music and the arts were lifelong loves. Jerry spent countless peaceful hours in his listening room enjoying his treasured LP collection. His favorite artists included Willie Nelson, Louis Armstrong, Benny Goodman, Etta James, Janis Ian, and many others whose music filled his home and heart.

Jerry also enjoyed reading, particularly books on history and photography, and built an impressive collection of World War II aviation artwork, including several rare and one-of-a-kind pieces. He was known for making lists, journaling his thoughts and prayers each day, and approaching every responsibility with remarkable precision, organization, and dedication.

Among Jerry’s happiest memories were the summers spent with his family at “Papa’s House” in Florida. Those weeks were filled with beach days, Disney adventures, golf cart rides through the neighborhood, trips in “Mason’s Car”—Papa’s beloved Corvette that only Mason was allowed to drive—and favorite meals at Boone Docks, Aunt Catfish’s, and Crabby Joe’s. These moments created treasured memories that his family will forever hold close.

Jerry also cherished the simple blessings of friendship. His weekly lunch gatherings with dear friends Russ, Mike, and Gaylord as well as others became treasured traditions that brought him companionship, laughter, and joy.

Above all, Jerry’s greatest pride and greatest joy was his grandson, Mason. He celebrated every accomplishment in Mason’s life, especially his acceptance into Texas Christian University and his success in the Neeley School of Business. Jerry often said his greatest goal was to live long enough to watch Mason graduate from college. While he will not be present in person on that special day, his family knows he will be watching over Mason with immense pride, just as he watches over all those he loved.

Jerry will be remembered for his kindness, compassion, generosity, selflessness, unwavering faith, and quiet strength. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through his love, integrity, and steadfast example.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate physicians, nurses, and staff at Liberty Hospital and Clinic for the exceptional care they provided, as well as to the many family members and friends whose prayers, love, and support have been a source of comfort throughout this journey.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Eleanor Probst; brothers, Walter (Marilyn) Probst, and James (Ginny) Probst; as well as his twin sister, Mary Catherine Wilson.

He is survived by his family: Jackie (Wes) Robertson; grandson, Mason Robertson; as well as his brother in law, Craig Wilson; along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Wounded Warrior Project: 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256 or you may donate to a charity of choice.