Our beloved brother, Gerald (Jerry) Soukup completed his life's journey on Saturday, January 12, 2008. His passing was unexpected, taking us all by surprise. He passed away quietly, alone, as the sun came up. He was 55.

Jerry was born on November 14, 1952 in Klamath Falls, Oregon, the first born child of Andrew and Viola Louis Soukup. He came to Yerington with is parents at the age of one. Besides living in Reno for a few years, he has lived in Yerington most of his life.

Jerry was a true character, touching the lives of all who knew him. He lived his life the way he wanted: humbly, simply and with great love for his family. He was unpretentious and often self-effacing. He had tremendous compassion for people and animals, he especially loved his dogs. He was a kind and true friend to many, young and old alike. Jerry was one of the few people who loved you for who you were. He loved to make you laugh. His stories were often told with visuals that had you rolling. If he could put a smile on your face, then he had done his job. He loved to read, especially the books by Louis L'Amour. His heroes were the characters from the Sackett, Talon and Chantry families, who held strong loyalties to family and consistently showed great respect for the environment. Jerry modeled his life around these characters. But more than that, he was like Louis L'Amour, a great storyteller. Louis L'Amour once described himself "as a troubadour, a village tale-teller, the man in the shadows of the campfire." and said "That's the way I'd like to be remembered - as a storyteller. "A good storyteller", this is the way Jerry will be remembered. He could not wait to join his father, Andy Soukup, who died only a few months ago. He is the first of us to be reunited with our mom and dad in heaven. His passing has left this family with a great void in our hearts and lives that can never be filled.

Jerry was the MUCH loved older brother of Dawn Yancy, Patsy DeCrona, Jack, Lolly Morton, Cindy Wessel, Lee, Clay, Kirk and Pat: the adored younger brother of Adrian Louis and Linda Johnson. He is also survived by many adoring nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.

At his request there will be no service at this time. We ask that you remember Jerry with a kind thought and perhaps a chuckle as you recall one of his stories. He would have liked it that way. His cremains will spread amoung three places, a little with mom in Yerington, a little with dad in Montana, and rest by his favorite fishing hole.
Jerry, you will never leave our hearts, our brother in the shadows of the campfire.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Freitas Rupracht Funeral Home 25 Hwy 208 Yerington 89447 (775) 463-2911.

Family and friends may sign the online guest book at www.FRFH.net.