In loving memory of

Jerome DeWitt Gangwer
June 30, 1941 - April 4, 2018

Jerome DeWitt Gangwer, "Jerry", faithful Christian, loyal husband, gentle father and delighted grandfather, passed away on Wednesday, April 4, 2018, at his home in Ambler.

With his wife Joan steadfastly by his side, he gracefully succumbed to Progressive Supranuclear Palsy, a rare Parkinsonism disease. Jerry was 76 years old.

Jerry was known for his integrity, wisdom, and affirmation by those who were close to him. Throughout his entire life, he was a truly caring man, who put other's needs before his own. He was instrumental in making the Philadelphia area a better place in his twenty-eight-year career with the FBI. After retirement, he served as Director of Security at Cairn University in Langhorne, PA and Chelten Church in Dresher, PA.

Jerry is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Joan (Anderson). He is the devoted father of two children, Jerilynn Gangwer, of Ambler and Jon Gangwer and his wife Melissa, of Maple Glen. He is the proud and loving grandfather of Ava, Trevor, Ruby and Theo. Jerry is also survived by eight siblings and brothers and sisters-in-law, many nieces and nephews, a loving extended family and many friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Jerry's funeral service on Friday, April 13, 2018, at 6:30 PM at Chelten - a Church of Hope, 1601 N. Limekiln Pike, Dresher, PA 19025. Interment will be private.

Donations in Jerry's memory to Cure PSP, 404 Fifth Avenue, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10018, https://www.psp.org/donate would be appreciated by the family.

Tributes and photos may be shared at www.UrbanFuneralHome.com

Tributes

Sissy wrote on Apr 30, 2018:

"My deep condolences to the Gangwer family, The pain of losing a loved one is oh, so real. May you find some comfort in the Most High God?s word (Psalms 83:18) . Yes, He promises a time when we can see our loved ones again(Acts 24:15) in perfect health(Isaiah 33:24) and He says where: Psalms 37:11. May you hold on to God?s promises. May comfort & peace be with you."

Rachel Woronowicz wrote on Apr 8, 2018:

"I just wanted to say what a tremendous impact Jerry's kindness had in my life. When I was a freshman student at Cairn University, I had just recently been the victim of a terrible crime. I was scared to walk around campus after dark. And one day I was in the security office and I started to ask him some questions about security and began crying. He listened intently with tremendous compassion. He knew there was a reason I was afraid, even though I didn't say it. And he showed me so much love. He then organized a special self defense class for me and a few other girls. He spent the whole day teaching us how to protect ourselves. He showed so much kindness and interest in us. The class really empowered me and bolstered my confidence and feelings of safety. Mostly, his love, time, attention, and prayers were so healing to my soul during such a vulnerable time. From then on, throughout my time at Cairn, Jerry looked out for me. His kindness and love ministered to me so much. My friends and I loved him! I'm so thankful God used him to minister to me. I'm so sorry that he has been suffering. But I rejoice that Jerry is alive with Christ now and receiving an honorable welcome from His Savior. Being recognized for all the ways he honored Christ by taking care of others with such Grace. Much love to you all. Sincerely, Rachel W. Cairn Alumnus"

Lewis wrote on Apr 7, 2018:

"I am sorry for the family's loss. Please find some solace in the promise of the resurrection mentioned in the Bible at Acts 24:15."

Lewis wrote on Apr 7, 2018:

"I am sorry for the family's loss. Please find some solace in the promise of the resurrection mentioned in the Bible at Acts 24:15."

Linda Cragle wrote on Apr 6, 2018:

"Hi Joan and family. We are praying for your family. I will always remember Jerry and the fun times we had in youth group. Also for the special camping trip we all went on, He will always be with you he just changed his address. Love and prayers. The Cragle Family "

Joanne (McQuillan) Johnson wrote on Apr 6, 2018:

"Dearest Joan, Jerilynn, Jon and family, We will remember your Husband, Father and Grandfather, as a godly, gentle soul, who was my brothers co worker in the FBI and a wonderful friend to him, as well. I remember an evening, some years ago, when he and you, Joan, came to our home to encourage our hearts, when we were hurting. We will never forget your kindness. In the past couple of years, upon finding out that our dear husbands were suffering from the same disease, you reached out once more, Joan, to give us resources that were helpful to us, as we travel this same journey. Jerry is now seeing his Savior face to face and rejoicing in His presence. Please be assured of our prayers in the days ahead, Lovingly, Harmon and Joanne (McQuillan) Johnson"

Trish Chialastri wrote on Apr 5, 2018:

"Jerilynn and family So very sorry to hear of the passing of your father--I know that you love him with every ounce of your being. Your friend and co-worker, Trish"