Gerald "Jerry" Clair Wilson, 88, of Idaho Falls, died Tuesday, January 30, 2018, at his home.

Jerry was born on August 18, 1929, in Alliance, Nebraska, to Marcus Earnest and Helena Rita Sheridan Wilson. He grew up in Vancouver, Washington. He graduated from Vancouver High School in 1947.

He served in the Army National Guard, where he retired on August 18, 1989.

Jerry married Betty Ruth Birk, and they were later divorced. On April 27, 1968, he married Hazel Ann Elaine Clark in Vancouver, Washington. Together they raised 13 children. They lived in Vancouver, Idaho Falls and Blackfoot.

He worked for Pacific Carbide, the LDS Church and Idaho Falls Airport.

Jerry was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

He enjoyed making model trains, and spending time with his family.

Jerry will be remembered by his family and friends as a kind, giving, hardworking man with an infectious smile, hearty laugh and a love for teasing others.

He is survived by his wife, Hazel Anne Elaine Wilson; his children: James Herbert (Kimberlee) Wilson of Kamas, Washington, Suzanne Ruth (Darryl) Ellridge of Battleground, Washington, Timothy Ray (Sue) Wilson of Woodland, Washington, Barbara June (Michael) Rodgers of Vancouver, Washington, Christina Louise (Jon) Anderson of Vancouver, Washington, Michelle Ann (Jeff) Neal of Tigard, Oregon, Scott Michael (Holli) Wilson of Vancouver, Washington, Marcus Steven (Terra) Wilson of Blackfoot, Idaho, April Marie (Daniel) Bush of Idaho Falls, Idaho, Dennis Clark (Julia) Wilson of Great Falls, Montana, and Brian Todd Wilson of Idaho Falls, Idaho; 34 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and 20 great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Marcus and Helena Wilson; his half-brother, Francis Daley; his brothers: Melvin Wilson and Allen Wilson; his sisters: Mary Williams and Wilma Myers; his son, John Clair Wilson.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, February 5, 2018, at the Willow Creek LDS Ward Chapel, 6925 North 15th East, Idaho Falls. The family will receive friends from 6:00-8:00 p.m., Sunday, February 4, 2018, at Coltrin Mortuary, 2100 First Street, Idaho Falls and one hour prior to services at the church. Inurnment will be held at Willamette National Cemetery. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.coltrinmortuary.com .