Girard "Gerry" Rene Wallis

Girard “Gerry” Rene Wallis, 69 years old, of Gresham, Oregon, died on October 8th, 2024.

He was born in Portland, Oregon in 1955 to Glenna Laws. Girard grew up alongside his loving big sister, Ginger Wallis. He attended Canby High School, and went on to join the United States Army at 17 years old, he was a proud soldier and loved serving his country. After his time in the Army, he went on to study Business Administration at Mt. Hood Community College.

Girard met the love of his life, Susan “Susie” Wallis, in July of 1978 on a blind date set up by their mutual friend. As Susie remembers, Gerry was playing a game when she walked into the restaurant for their date, when he turned around and saw her, his eyes lit up. Within five minutes, the two already had their second date planned. Excited to start their new lives together, the two were married on November 4th, 1978.

Gerry and Susie couldn’t wait to start a family of their own, and their children meant the world to them. Together, they shared two handsome sons, Travis and Michael, and a beautiful daughter, Tiffany. Gerry was a wonderful father who loved his children very much, and was very active in their lives - from coaching sports teams, to taking them hunting and fishing.

Though he loved fishing, golfing, and riding his motorcycle, Gerry’s favorite role was that as a grandparent. He treasured his time with his grandkids, and great grandkids, and loved being their Papa, never failing to bring a smile to their face. You could always count on Papa for anything, from cheering you on at sports to going out for breakfast together. He gave the best presents for Christmas and Birthdays, and always made every one of his grandchildren feel special.

Gerry had a soft spot for his animals, treating each and every one like the valuable family member they were. He had many loved pets in his lifetime, especially his spoiled pug, Leo, Lola the Shit-Zhu, and Sophie.

Gerry was passionate about working with his hands, and loved helping others. He worked as a painter, alongside his son, Michael, and a handyman. Gerry was known for helping friends, family, or neighbors in need, and took great pride in his work.

Gerry will always be remembered for his compassion, happiness, and the way he always had a smile on his face. We couldn’t have asked for a better husband, brother, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather and will miss Gerry every day. His memory will live on in the hearts of all those who loved him.

Girard was preceded in death by his mother “Ginny”, and is survived by Ginger (sister), Susan (wife), Travis (son), Michael (son), Tiffany (daughter), Kaitlynn (granddaughter), Cameron (grandson), Quintin (grandson), Lily (granddaughter), Sydney (granddaughter), and Samantha (granddaughter), and five great-grandchildren.