GARDNER — Delmar Jerome Desmarteau, “Jerry,” age 84, passed away in his home on Gardner Lake Thursday, Aug. 3, 2017. He was born Oct. 18, 1932, in Damar, Kansas, to Hector Joseph Desmarteau and Delia Ellen Plomondon. He attended Catholic School in Great Bend, graduating from Great Bend High School.
Jerry served in the National Guard, where he completed training for marksman and sharpshooter. He received a commendation of exceptional meritorious service in August 1951. Then he served in the U.S. Army from 1951 to October 1961 where he completed pipeline installation training, and was an M.P. stationed in France during his service to the country. On March 9, 1956, he married Joann Brown.
During his professional career, he worked as a firefighter, oil field roughneck, truck driver and salesman. Jerry retired as a territory sales manager for Big A auto parts in 1989.
Jerry and Joann were members of the cowboy Sam’s camp club and enjoyed traveling all over with their 5th wheel camper. He also enjoyed fishing, hunting, golfing, woodworking, and family gatherings. He was a member of the American Legion, Eagles and the VFW.
Survivors include his wife Joann, sons Larry and Mike, daughter Vicki, seven grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19, at the American Legion, 1011 Kansas Ave. in Great Bend. Burial will be at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 20, at the Penokee, Kansas, cemetery. Memorial contributions for Jerry will be made to the Shriners. Envelopes will be available at the Memorial or mailed to Joann Desmarteau, 29310 W. 155th Terr., Gardner KS 66030.

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Aug. 6, 2017