Jerry Eldon Ulmer
Mar 21, 1947 -
Nov 2, 2025
In Loving Memory of Jerry Eldon Ulmer
"Your legacy is every life you've ever touched." — Maya Angelou
Jerry leaves a legacy beyond measure; the lives he touched will forever hold his selfless kindness in their hearts.
Jerry Eldon Ulmer, age 78, passed away peacefully on Nov. 2, 2025, after a courageous journey with Lewy Body Dementia. In his final weeks, Jerry was surrounded by the love and prayers of his family and close friends.
Born on March 21, 1947, in Ontario, Ore., to Eldon and Lillian Ulmer, he soon after traveled with his parents up the Alcan Highway in 1950 to Fairbanks, Alaska. The challenging trip, with three little kids, was accomplished in a new Studebaker convertible. In 1954, his father, a pharmacist, purchased the Rexall Drug on 4th Avenue and E Street in Anchorage. The family then moved to the newest subdivision in town, Turnagain-By-The-Sea. Five years later, another move took them to their self-named "Last Resort," a beautiful, idyllic home situated on Sand Lake. The lake setting offered the perfect environment for Jerry and his four siblings - Brent, Scott, Reed and Sue - to swim, water ski, snowmachine, hunt and fish.
Jerry graduated from West Anchorage High School in 1965, then followed in his father's footsteps by attending pharmacy school at the University of Arizona. In 1970, he graduated with a degree in pharmaceutical medicine. After college, he returned home to Alaska for a time, driving the Alcan Highway in his beloved VW bus - the "Red Baron."
Before beginning his pharmacy career, Jerry returned to Tucson for a year of "fun in the sun." He spent that time living with his best friend, Tom Kelly, and brother Scott. Jerry and Tom traveled around the Southwest pursuing one of their lifelong obsessions - cycling competitions. During a side trip through Mexico, Jerry and a friend climbed Popocatepetl, a giant 17,700-foot volcano.
Upon his return to Anchorage, Jerry built a respected career as a pharmacist. He stood shoulder-to-shoulder with his father, filling prescriptions at Downtown Rexall. His warmth, integrity and compassion made him a trusted and beloved figure in the community.
Jerry was a man of many passions. He obtained his private pilot's license and became the proud owner of an 85 hp Champ airplane, affectionately referred to as the "Guppy." He used the freedom of the skies for sightseeing, visiting remote destinations and joining duck hunting trips with family and friends. Jerry cherished annual trips to the "duck shack," across Cook Inlet, where hunting and camaraderie created lifelong memories. His loyal hunting companions included not only dear friends, but also his beloved Chesapeake Bay retrievers, whom he trained with sometimes limited success.
He loved fly fishing with his brothers, especially during their annual trips to the Talachulitna River. A talented craftsman, Jerry enjoyed woodworking, and like everything he tried, he was a natural. He helped many nieces, nephews and friends create birdhouses, dioramas and elaborate school projects, always patient and proud to lend a hand. He was an avid photographer, including countless hours spent in the red dimness of a darkroom.
Jerry was a natural and accomplished runner, competing in marathons around the globe - including Canada, Paris, and the prestigious Boston Marathon in 1996.
Later in life, Jerry became very involved in the Alaska Run for Women, fulfilling two passions of his: supporting a cure for breast cancer and honoring his love of running.
In 1983, Jerry married Patricia "Patty" McManamin, the love of his life. Together, they built a marriage grounded in adventure, laughter and love until Patty's passing from breast cancer in 2003. Their years together left an enduring bond between Jerry and the McManamin family, who remained close to him throughout his life.
A passion for cars, especially those made in Germany, led to a chance meeting with Raphael "Ralfy" Quepons in 2001. In the ensuing 20-plus years, especially in the last dozen years, Ralfy became his most trusted and dearest friend. They spent countless hours together working on Jerry's cars. His support, friendship and time during Jerry's decline into dementia knew no limit.
Jerry was blessed again when he met Gricelda "Gris" Valencia. They married on Feb. 14, 2021. Gris lovingly cared for Jerry through every stage of his illness, showing him the same steadfast love he had always given others.
He is survived by his loving wife, Gris; brothers, Brent (Sharon), Scott and Reed (Kathleen); the Valencia Family; McManamin family; and many nieces, nephews and friends who adored him.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Patty McManamin; parents, Eldon and Lillian Ulmer; and sister, Sue Ulmer.
A celebration of Jerry's life will be held on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, from 2-5 p.m., at Culmination Motorsports, 160 W. 91st Avenue, Anchorage, AK 99515.
Jerry's cremains will rest beside Patty's, honoring their enduring love, while a small portion will remain with Gris, a symbol of their everlasting bond.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center or The Patricia McManamin Ulmer Scholarship Fund at the University of Alaska - Anchorage.
Jerry lived with grace, loved deeply and leaves behind a legacy of generosity, adventure and kindness that will continue to inspire all who knew him.
