Gerald L. "Jerry" Oetzel

Born in Philadelphia, PA on October 2, 1955, he was a son of the late Leonard F. and Mildred C. (Martin) Oetzel. Jerry was a Registered Master Plumber in PA, NJ, and DE. He was a dedicated employee who worked tirelessly sharing his extensive knowledge in all fields as an RMP and Senior Plumbing Estimator for Sobieski Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning where he had been employed for 20 years. He was a member since 1982 of the Matt Talbot #34 Retreat. He took great joy in recruiting new men to his beloved retreat. 35 years ago, he married his wife Marleen. While he was under no obligation to love her son Drew, he did with all his heart. To prove his love, he legally adopted him when he was 17- years old and gave him his name. Jerry was always an exceedingly kind, loyal, generous, gentle and loving man to his wife and son Drew. Almost 15 years ago, his wife found her calling and meaning of life, and that was to rescue dogs from shelters and bring them into their home to foster them until they were adopted. To say the least, initially Jerry was not a willing partner in her endeavor but along the way he saw what it meant to her and even more importantly he saw what it meant to the lives of the dogs that now had the opportunity to have the life they deserved. In time, in Jerry’s good-nature, he referred to her dog rescue as Marleen’s most expensive and time consuming hobby! Jerry endured having 556 pups & dogs fostered in his home. He became the most extraordinary Foster Dad for LnF Dog Rescue. When the dogs had been beaten and full of fear, Jerry made it HIS mission to help them feel love and to be able to trust again. His gentleness and patience helped countless formerly battered dogs become adoptable. Jerry will be deeply missed by everyone who loved him & anyone who knew him. A visitation for family and friends will be held from 6 pm until 7 pm on Thursday, January 10, 2019, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 1000 N. DuPont Parkway, New Castle, DE, where a memorial service will begin at 7 pm. Interment will be held privately. Please “ no flowers “ in lieu of flowers please make a donation in loving memory in Jerry’s name to – https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

Gerald L. "Jerry" Oetzel

October 2, 1955 - January 5, 2019