WARREN GERI

12/24/2016 

Warren A. Geri Age 78, passed peacefully on December 24, 2016 at his home in Gig Harbor with his wife, Inge, by his side. An avid skier, boater, sports enthusiast, and dog lover, Warren truly enjoyed life. His love of family and friends, sense of humor, and quick wit will be missed. He was born in Bellingham to Frank and Leora Geri, as the oldest of three sons. Warren earned his pilot's license at age 16 before his driver's license. At Bellingham High Warren served on the student council and shined on the varsity basketball team. A lifelong Husky fan, he graduated from the University of Washington with a Bachelor of Arts and was a member of Sigma Nu fraternity. Warren went on to fly F-8 Crusader fighter jets for the Marine Corps. After completing his military service, he co-founded WAG Construction in Alaska, but quickly returned to his first love, flying commercial jets for Pan American World Airways in 1966. He continued as a pilot until 1998, when he retired as captain from United Airlines. His life as an international airline pilot took him to many places around the world living in Hong Kong, Berlin, Ventura, CA, and Bellevue, WA, where he raised a family, Warren and his wife Inge spent the last 25 years enjoying life in beautiful Gig Harbor, adventures on their boat, and in Sun Valley, pursuing some of their favorite pastimes. Working out at the gym, racquetball, and walking his beloved dogs were just a few of the activities that Warren enjoyed in his retirement. The last few years Warren battled leukemia with ferocity, courage, and an uncomplaining nature. A supportive father, loving husband, and great friend, Warren touched all who knew him. We would like to thank the numerous doctors and nurses who have helped on this long journey. A special heartfelt acknowledgement to Dr. John Keech, his excellent nurses, and staff from Multicare Gig Harbor Oncology. They never wavered in their compassionate and expert care. Memorial donations may be made in Warren's name to Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Leukemia research. A celebration of his life will be held on January 21 st at Anthony's Home Port in Gig Harbor at 11:00am. Warren is survived by his wife of 27 years, Inge Geri, sons Michael Geri, Steven Geri, and Kristofer Clark, brother Wayne Geri, grandchildren Brooks and Jack Geri and Louise and Vivian Geri, cousins Mark and Laurie Hewitson, and other relatives and dear friends. Warren was predeceased by his brother William Geri.
SEMPER FI

Published in News Tribune (Tacoma) on Jan. 8, 2017