Gerald William Vonderbrink

VONDERBRINK, Gerald William, age 95, of Kettering, passed away Sunday, February 5, 2023. Jerry was born July 5, 1927 to the late Richard and Marguerite (Grady) VonderBrink. He began working at General Electric in accounting, going on to work at the University of Dayton, where he proudly worked his way up to Vice President of Financial Affairs, from 1961 until he retired. There, Jerry was involved with the building of UD Arena, securing the funds to make that happen. He was the ultimate Flyer fan who loved his job, so much so that he often said he would work for free. A true patriot, Jerry also served in the US Army, where he was stationed in Japan. He was a kind and caring man who never spoke ill of anyone. 

Jerry was outgoing with a great sense of humor. He enjoyed traveling the world, visiting Russia, Australia, New Zealand, and his favorite-Alaska. Jerry loved ballroom dancing and playing bridge. A member of Ascension Church, he was solid in his faith. Jerry had a servant’s heart, volunteering his Sunday nights at St. Vincent Hotel in Dayton. He was also awarded co-volunteer of the year for his dedication. Jerry was active in his community in other ways as well. He served on the Board of Directors for Places, the Dakota Center, and numerous other non-profits. Jerry lived life to the fullest, but nothing made him happier than spending time with his grandchildren. He would take them to parks and out to lunch, and the occasional trip to the Dollar Store. Jerry was so proud of his family, who will miss him dearly. 

He is preceded in death by his first wife, Avalon VonderBrink, son David VonderBrink, and brother Dick VonderBrink. Jerry is survived by his wife, Diane VonderBrink, children Diane (Kerry) Edwards, Phil (Kathy) VonderBrink and Joe (Karen) VonderBrink, grandchildren Rob VonderBrink, Mark (Jen) VonderBrink, Ethan Edwards, Ellen (Evan) Wray, Matt (Krista) VonderBrink, Sarah (Mike Sullivan) VonderBrink, Annie VonderBrink, Kristen VonderBrink and Lauren VonderBrink, great-grandchildren Kennedy VonderBrink, Claire Wray, Mackensie (Zach) King, Torie (Matthew) Hitchcock, Tyler (Kelly) VonderBrink, Samantha VonderBrink and Chloe (Connor) Perry, great-great-grandchildren, Bella King, Evie King, Emma Stout, Nolan VonderBrink and Casper Hitchcock. 

Family will greet friends Friday, February 24, from 6:00pm-8:00pm at Routsong Funeral Home, 2100 E. Stroop Rd., Kettering, Ohio. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at UD Chapel Saturday, February 25, at noon. Jerry will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery immediately following the Mass. The family would like to extend their gratitude to Hospice of Dayton for their exceptional care of Jerry.