Gerry K. McKee

Gerry McKee, of Hanford, California, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2025, with his family lovingly by his side. He was born on August 2, 1946, in Hanford, where he grew up.

Gerry graduated from Hanford High School in 1964, a place where he formed lifelong friendships and began shaping the values that would guide him throughout his life. One of his greatest joys in later years was meeting up with “The Boys of ’64” on the third Wednesday of each month at Star Café. Over meals, laughter, and stories of days gone by, Gerry found camaraderie that meant the world to him.

On January 18, 1969, Gerry married the love of his life, Ethel Mae McKee. Together they shared nearly 57 years of unwavering partnership, and deep affection. Their marriage was a testament to loyalty and enduring love, and Gerry remained a devoted husband to Ethel every day of his life.

Gerry proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1965 to 1967 during the Vietnam War. His service time may seem brief to some but to Gerry, the memories of that time as a soldier remained seared in his mind. He often shared war stories with his family and anyone who would listen. Though drafted, his willingness to serve as an only son reflected his steadfast character.

Gerry worked as a control room foreman supervisor at Del Monte Tomato Plant in Hanford, CA for over 20 years, where his dedication, expertise, and leadership were greatly respected. In addition to his professional career, he assisted his mother-in-law in caring for her dairy cows and crops on the farm at which he lived with his family for many years.

A dedicated family man, Gerry was the proud father of four children: Melissa Wheelock of Santa Maria, CA; Jason McKee and his wife Trisha of Hanford, CA; Megan Price of Lemoore, CA; and Michelle Corral and her husband Courtney, stationed at Vandenberg AFB on the Central Coast. He was a deeply loved grandfather to twelve grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart. Gerry made it a priority to be present for every game, performance, ceremony, and celebration, cheering loudly and showing up without fail.

For his hobbies, Gerry enjoyed pocket poker games, watching sports (especially football), and scratching lottery tickets. Gerry was a lucky man in more ways than one, but he also happened to be a rare six-figure lottery winner once upon a time; a story he loved to tell.

Gerry is preceded in death by his mother, Annie Edwards; his father, Andrew Derischweiler; his mother-in-law, Lucille Hall; and many siblings who went before him.

Gerry will be remembered for his humor, generosity, playful spirit, unwavering work ethic, and the steadfast love he showed to those around him. His presence filled every room he entered, and his absence will be felt immeasurably. He leaves behind a legacy of devotion—to his family, to his country, and to the simple joys that made life meaningful. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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