Remembering Gerald Eugene Stram: A Life Well Lived

Gerald Eugene Stram, known affectionately as “Jerry,” passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on November 9, 2025. He was 87 years old and succumbed to natural causes. Stram’s life was characterized by a zest for living, which he maintained until his final days.

Born on July 14, 1938, in Oakland, California, Jerry was the son of Cynthia Jane Chapman-Stram and Roy Wilbur Stram. His childhood was spent in Lafayette, California, but he also called Sausalito, Portland, Oregon, and back to Sausalito his home over the decades. A proud family man, he was predeceased by his wife of 35 years, Maidalee “Maxey” Eileen Kroijer-Stram, who passed away in 2014. His first wife, Dustine Dorothy Rohl-Stram-Nelson, died in 2001.

Jerry is survived by his two children: Denise Stram-Youngblood and Kenneth Stram, along with their spouses, Brian and Eileen, respectively. He was a devoted grandfather to Nathan, Alex, Kendyl, Leanne, and Keith Youngblood, and a great-grandfather to Quincy and Harper Merriman.

Throughout his life, Jerry enjoyed a variety of activities, including travel, camping, and fishing. He was known for enjoying $3 beers at the Marin Brewing Company with friends, which brought him joy. A graduate of Tamalpais High School in 1956, he attended the College of Marin and Humboldt State University before serving with pride in the United States Army.

A fan of the San Francisco 49ers since the late 1940s, Jerry remained loyal through the team’s ups and downs, famously watching them play against the Rams on his final day. His community involvement included being a dedicated member of the Sausalito Lions Club and volunteering for the Sausalito Art Festival for many years.

In a final act of generosity consistent with his character, Jerry’s remains have been donated to UCSF for scientific research. His ashes will be scattered beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, allowing friends and family to pay their respects.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to favorite charities as a way to honor Jerry’s memory and legacy. His life was a testament to the joys of family, friendship, and community, and he will be missed by all who knew him.