Jerry Perisho

Jerrold “Jerry” Stephen Perisho, a beloved figure in the Whittier community, passed away at the age of 71 surrounded by his wife and sons. He was born on May 21, 1952, in Oskaloosa, Iowa, and departed from this world on June 13, 2023.

After living in the Midwest, Jerry moved to Whittier during his third-grade year. He attended Ocean View Elementary and East Whittier Middle School, where he met Christa Lopez. They attended California High School, where they started dating, and as they both continued their academic pursuits at Rio Hondo Community College and Cal State Fullerton, they were married. At each level Jerry not only succeeded in academics, but he also excelled in athletics as a star basketball player.

Jerry’s professional life was marked with a constant desire to help others. He began his career at Whittier Area Schools Federal Credit Union and went on to serve as the Executive Director of the Boys and Girls Club of Whittier, an organization that he loved passionately. Later, after working as a local bank executive, he finally transitioned to Medicare insurance. In this work as an insurance broker, he found his ultimate calling helping others navigate the complexities of insurance. He was a trusted confidante for hundreds of seniors, assisting them through a difficult and confusing time.

The Whittier community was very important to Jerry. He was well-known for his leadership within numerous organizations, including the Whittier Chamber of Commerce, the Whittier Host Lions Club, and, of course, the Boys and Girls Club of Whittier. Jerry worked tirelessly to enhance the welfare of those he served.

Jerry was not only accomplished professionally, but also possessed a vibrant and undeniable personality that drew people towards him. He had an uncanny ability to find the humor in every situation. From having thousands of his jokes published in magazines, radio shows, and even on late-night talk shows like The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and The Late Show with David Letterman; to writing the comedy book “I Barf, Therefore I Am” while going through the trials of chemotherapy and other treatments for prostate cancer decades ago; to joking with his hospice nurse in his final days. His zest for life was infectious and his very nature spread happiness to those around him.

Together with Christa, his loving wife of 50 years, Jerry leaves behind three sons who were the pride and joy of his life: Daniel Victor Perisho (with wife Karen Perisho), Brian Christopher Perisho (with wife Elise Perisho), Stephen Lee Perisho (with husband Arya Moalemi). He also leaves behind four cherished grandchildren: Stenson, Oliver, Nicholas, and Bailey. All are a testament to the love and devotion that Jerry poured into his family. Their lives were enriched by their adoring father and grandfather who cared deeply for each of them.

In honoring his memory, let us take solace in the fact that Jerry’s impact will forever echo

within our hearts. Though he may no longer be physically present among us, his spirit will always guide us towards compassion, kindness, and a profound appreciation for humor. Rest in peace, dearest Jerry.