Jerry M Showalter, 85, of Tampa, Florida, died peacefully, Sunday, November 21st, 2021, in the comfort of his home. Jerry was born in Mt. Carmel, Illinois, on May 25th, 1936, to Jewel (Spond) and Verne Showalter. He graduated from Mt. Carmel High School and continued his education at Eastern Illinois University. Jerry proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps. On December 1st, 1964, he married Sandra (Woods).
Jerry spent over 35 years in the machine tool industry working for Pacific Press and Sheer, Co. Then, for the next several years, he dabbled in the oil industry and settled in Tampa, where he owned and operated a golf car accessory manufacturing company, Tampa G Manufacturing. Jerry was an entrepreneur and inventor, developing many patents.
Jerry had many hobbies, from collecting cars to hunting, fishing, and playing golf. Jerry enjoyed traveling and was an avid sports fan. Jerry loved his family and enjoyed spending time with his kids, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren whenever he could.
Jerry is survived by his daughter, Shea Showalter, and sons, Tracy (Joanne) and Cary (Kristen), all of Tampa, FL; seven grandchildren, Whitney (Justin), Madison, Rylie, Brian, Scott, Alina, and Sabina; and two great-grandchildren, Emma and Beckham. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jewel and Verne, his wife, Sandy, and his brothers, Gene and Donald.
Services will be private. Internment will be at Tampa Memorial Gardens.
Those who wish may make a gift in Jerry’s memory to Champions for Children, 3108 W. Azeele Street, Tampa, FL 33609 (www.cfctb.org).
