Gerard Minassian
April 16, 1926 - November 6, 2015

"I always considered myself lucky that my grandparents lived just down the road from me growing up. I consider their house as a second home. Holidays at their house were always filled with wonderful smells of Grandma Nancy's delicious cooking and baking, the sounds of football on TV, and the promise of gifts, both material and intangible. My grandpa was a warm-hearted, funny man who shared my love of entertainment. I remember sitting in on poker games when I was a kid, my Dad, uncle, grandpa, and his friends betting change and small bills. I enjoyed watching them play, but enjoyed the promise of pepperoni pizza even more. My Grandpa was always willing to help if I asked for it. I remember one time I needed to get my car repaired and he drove me to a gas station where he got repairs done by a fellow Armenian. Grandpa drove well into his 80s. He loved doing crossword puzzles and keeping his mind sharp. He could burp like no one else, and believe me we all tried to beat him. He was a collector of stamps and coins, and even had this really cool old pinball machine. I used to go in his study and play it sometimes as a kid. More than anything though, he loved his family and would have done anything for us. I'm sad I won't be able to go to his viewing, but when I was visiting last Christmas we said our goodbyes. He knew he didn't have much time left even then. I will miss you Grandpa Jerry. May you rest in peace. "

"We've known Jerry for 45 years - about half of his life. It's hard to describe feelings about such a great boss, friend and mentor. Jerry had one of the most talented audit minds ever, and he continuously and effortlessly was the world's greatest mentor. He erased the stigma to those being audited with his infectious (and impish) smile and wit. He encouraged all those working for and with him, gave pats on the back when needed, and encouragement always. As friends, Jerry and ever-present Nancy were always there, making their home available whenever anyone stopped-over. In his younger days, Jerry was also very athletic, winning the Saturday racquetball championship of Pembroke Pines. Jerry had a wide range of interests, and could talk about stamps, coins, catching employees with sticky fingers, baseball and football at a moment's notice. Mr. M, you have left an indelible mark in many lives. Thank you for your love, friendship, encouragement and advice. "

"Many many miles kept my dad and I apart for a very long time. I'm thankful that my dad did not have my awful dreaded fear of flying and he made the long trip to California on several occasions. For that I am grateful. I remember as a young child my dad being a very hard-working dedicated banker while we lived in New Jersey. He would make that long trek to New York by way of bus then Subway then back to New Jersey five days a week. He would leave at the crack of dawn and didn't return until 6 PM or later. My dad's favorite TV shows were the Johnny Carson show Paladin and Victory at Sea. Of course everyone who knew him knew what a fan he was of the San Francisco Giants. Thanks to my dad I inherited his great poker playing skills. May you rest in peace Dad and you will remain forever in our hearts. "

"Grandpa Jerry may you rest in peace and that you are in a happier place now... I remember as a kid always being excited to find out that my Grandpa Jerry was coming out to California from Florida to visit!! I will never forget the times we went to Las Vegas and a trip to Tiajuana!!!! Why we wanted to go there I will never know!!! We treasure the past With memories that will always last. God bless you and keep you in His care, Until we meet again."

"This past year, I sat down with my Dad and recorded stories of his life, especially his time in the US Navy during WWII. Later I re-wrote the stories as an oral history. In 1943, when my Dad was only 16 years old, he tried to enlist in the Navy but was too young. The following year, just before his 18th birthday he enlisted with his mother's permission. He spent most of the war years in Alameda Navy base near San Francisco. In 1946, he received his discharge from the Navy and returned to the Bronx to live with his parents. You can see one of the photos I posted of my Dad in his Navy uniform; he is standing with his arms around his mother and father. Some of my most vivid memories are of my grandmother and grandfather at their summer home in Sound Beach, Long Island. My Dad helped build that house in the early 1950's which is still standing today. If anyone is interested in reading the full version of the Oral History, contact Nancy or Craig and they will forward your email address to me so I can send a PDF file. We will miss you, Dad, Michael and Sue Minassian"

"I am sorry for the family's loss. Please take comfort in the promise of the resurrection mentioned in the Bible at John 6:40."

"Jerry, I miss you a lot and I thank you for your big heart in healing a couple of family situations in the past. I feel you are still here and helping me/us and I am so grateful. May you be comfortable and peaceful in the Light, and may Nancy and Craig draw comfort in knowing that you are ok now. Blessings and comfort to all the Minassians. "

"I am deeply sorry for your loss. May you draw comfort from Isaiah 25:8 were it says death will be swallowed up forever and mourning will be no more. "

"Please accept my sincere condolances. Losing a love one in death is something we can never mentally or emotionally prepare for. Gods word provides much comfort during this very difficult time. May you draw comfort from the promise found at Isaiah 25:8 which says, "He will swallow up death forever, and the Sovereign Lord Jehovah will wipe away the tears from all faces. "

"We are sorry for the loss of your beloved Gerald and our heartfelt condolences to the family. May the peace of God that surpasses all understanding guard your hearts and minds at this time of distress. (Philippians 4:6,7)"