Jerry P. George

April 2, 1944 – September 2, 2010

      Jerry George passed away suddenly at home on Bainbridge Island, September 2, 2010.

      He was born in Seattle in 1944, grew up in Brier, attended Bothell High School (‘62), and earned a degree in Philosophy from the University of Washington where he developed a special interest in the study of consciousness.

      In 1969 he met his partner Barbara Berger, and together they moved to Bainbridge in 1976. Having run a firewood business, he shifted to carpentry and construction. But when personal computers first appeared he dove right in, learned on the earliest models, got into programming and started a small shop called Computer Sales of Bainbridge. After the shop changed hands, he continued keeping up with the technology, generously helping people to establish a web presence. He created the first online coffee shop for the Bainbridge Ometepe Sister Islands Association, the first website for the Kilung Foundation established to help the nomads in east Tibet, and the website for Ground Zero Center for Nonviolent Action.

      After the Iraq war began, ferry commuters passing by the Friday vigils of Women in Black, at the corner of Hwy 305 and Winslow Way on Bainbridge, also saw a man keeping vigil on the opposite corner. Regarded by the women as their Brother in Black, Jerry faithfully stood for peace with them for three years. He also took part in many progressive events on the island. He was a deep thinker and in recent years returned to his core philosophical interests. Jerry’s study of consciousness embraced developments in cognitive neuroscience, evolutionary biology and the psychology of morality.

      He is survived by his companion of forty years, Barbara Helen Berger. Throughout her own career in art and children’s books, Jerry quietly and devotedly helped her in countless ways, always preferring to stay in the background. He will be deeply missed. He is also survived by his half-sister, Patricia Elam of Camano.

      A silent vigil for peace will be held in Jerry’s honor, October 9, 5:00-5:40 pm on the corner of Hwy 305 and Winslow Way on Bainbridge. Everyone welcome, bring candles. After the vigil a memorial and potluck will follow, starting at 6:00 at Eagle Harbor Congregational Church, Winslow Way and Madison, in the social hall.

      Remembrance donations may be made to Veterans for Peace, Ground Zero Center for Nonviolent Action, or the Kilung Foundation.

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