Gerald (Jerry) Duncan died at home on May 25, 2015, in Ketchum, Idaho. He was born in San Francisco, Calif., on March 15, 1943. He had a true passion for flying and earned his pilot’s license at age 16. After graduating from the University of California Berkeley, he joined Pan American Airlines, realizing his dream of being a commercial pilot. He traveled the world, living in Berlin for six years. He also had a love for sailing, and in Seattle designed his boat “Hagar,” which he raced throughout the Northwest. He became a captain of Boeing 747s for United Airlines, which he flew until his retirement in 2003.
After retirement, Jerry moved to live full-time in his beloved Sun Valley, Idaho, where he married Jeanne Thompson. Here they lived the mountain lifestyle and continued to fly his Beechcraft Bonanza, bringing on board their black Labs, Jake and Jenny.
He discovered a new sport: riding his Victory Hammer motorcycle. He shared adventures with good friends who rode with him to many destinations, including Red Lodge, Mont.; Sturgis, S.D.; and the Lolo loop in Idaho.
Jerry decided to work as a lift operator on Bald Mountain, where he shared smiles with everyone at the top of No. 7. He enjoyed the simple pleasures of schooners at Grumpy’s and steak sandwiches at Lefty’s.
Above all, Jerry loved people and was loved by many people. He had a wide circle of friends from all walks of life. He was always ready to listen, to laugh, to offer his help. He was generous with his time and good cheer. He will be deeply missed by all.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Jeanne Thompson; daughter, Sarah Elizabeth Duncan (Jim Goforth); stepson, Jeffery Kalani Thompson; sister, Carol Thorn (Rick); brother, James Duncan (Nicky); and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Jerry Duncan’s life will be in July. Donations can be made to the Animal Shelter of the Wood River Valley.