Gerald Zaun

The service will be livestreamed below starting at 9:45 AM on Friday. Gerald “Jerry” Zaun, 89, Fargo, ND passed away on Saturday, November 14, 2020 at Sanford Hospice House in Fargo. He was born on March 19, 1931 in Valley City to Frank and Clara (Huber) Zaun. He grew up in Valley City and graduated from Valley City High School in 1949. Jerry attended NDSU until January 1951, when he enlisted in the Air Force and served until October 22, 1954. In 2009 he and his children had the trip of a lifetime when he returned to Nagoya, Japan and was able to show them where he had served. After being honorably discharged from the Air Force, he returned to North Dakota and began his career as an engineer with Northwestern Bell System in 1955. Jerry worked for Northwestern Bell until his retirement in 1993. On June 27, 1959, Jerry was united in marriage to Shirley Mellum at St. James Basilica in Jamestown. The couple made their home in Fargo where they raised their children. In 1985, they moved into their dream home, designed by their son, Doug, in Oakcreek in Fargo. Jerry always referred to it as “Shirley’s House.” In 2008, after almost 50 years of marriage, Shirley passed away. In 2012, Jerry moved to Touchmark where there is a shelter, also designed by their son Doug, and made in Jerry and Shirley’s honor. Jerry was an avid reader, but his favorite way to spend his time was with his family, especially their yearly camping trips. Jerry had an infectious smile and a ready laugh. He will be greatly missed by his children, Barb (Al) Nelson of Fargo, Doug (Emily) Zaun of Duluth, MN, Pat (Mihoko) Zaun of Carlsbad, CA, Kathy (Bob) Melander of West Fargo; siblings, MaryAnn Armbrust, Denis (Peggy) Zaun, Dick (Candy) Zaun; sister-in-law, Elaine Zaun. He is also survived by his treasured grandchildren, who were the delight of his life, Kate (Jason) DeShaw, Amanda (Josh) Horner, and Rachel Nelson, Gabe and Eli Zaun, Sam and Ben Zaun, and Matthew and Carly Melander; and great-grandchildren, Rylee, Matthew, Marlee, Mavy, Jake, Eleanor, and Myla. He also leaves behind many in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his son, Matt and wife, Shirley. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Clara; and by his brother, Ted. A private family service will be held. The service will be livestreamed at 10:00 AM on Friday, November 20, 2020 on Boulger Funeral Home’s website. Memorials preferred to the Sanford Hospice House.