Jerry L. Ezrin passed away peacefully on August 19 in Stanford, CA at the age of 79. He was surrounded by his family, who he treasured more than anything.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Ellen, his loving children, Tom (Marilyn) and Jodi (Matt), and his adoring grandchildren Rebecca, Jeremy, Asher, Jordan and Anabelle.
Jerry was born on July 31, 1937 in Boston, Mass to Thomas and Lillian Ezrin. He was in the first graduating class from Long Beach State in 1959 earning degrees in Journalism and Sociology. After a short stint in the Air Force Reserve, he worked as a sportswriter for the Long Beach Press Telegram until he was hired by Pacific Bell into Public Relations. He enjoyed a successful 35-year career with PacBell/AT&T/Pacific Telesis highlighted by a 2-year assignment to New York that is fondly remembered by the family as a memorable experience.
Jerry met his soul mate and life-long love Ellen in 1961 and married in July, 1963. In December of that year, he was transferred to San Francisco, where Tom was born in 1966 and Jodi, in 1969. Jerry and Ellen raised their family in Foster City and enjoyed many happy years focused on soccer and little league baseball. This is where they met many of their close friends who remain dear friends to this day.
Jerry will be remembered by all who knew him as a kind, compassionate and giving person, with an infectiously friendly and easy going personality. Everyone loved Jerry, his positive influence, unique wit and sense of humor.
He was a master of the written word, which he used successfully during his working career, and subsequent to his retirement in 1994, when he began dedicating his time to community service - specifically as the editor of the Temple Bulletin at Peninsula Temple Sholom. As empty nesters, Jerry and Ellen immersed themselves in community activities and programs at PTS, where they created another strong network of close friends that continues to this day, and established themselves as active leaders in the Jewish community. Jerry also gave some of his spare time to Jewish Family and Children Services (JFCS) in Foster City.
Jerry was truly special. He was a committed husband, father, grandfather, and friend who will be missed beyond words.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, August 21 at 4:00 pm at Peninsula Temple Sholom, 1655 Sebastian Way, Burlingame, followed by a meal of condolence at the Lillian Byer Social Hall. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Jerry's life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Peninsula Temple Sholom. The family would like to thank the neurology and ICU staff at Stanford for their compassion, and for making Jerry's last days as comfortable as possible for everyone.