Obituary of Jerry Joann Phelan

Jerry Joann Phelan (Beaudoin) May 16, 1933 - April 20, 2012 Jerry Joann Beaudoin was born in North Dakota and moved to Portland, Oregon, in December 1942 when she was 9 years old. Jerry passed away at Good Samaritan Hospital in Portland on Friday, April 20th. She was surrounded by her children, grandchildren, family members and friends. Jerry grew up with big sister, Patty, and younger brother, Jeff, and their parents, George and Ida. She attended James John grade school in Portland, Roosevelt High School her freshman year, and graduated from Jefferson High School in 1951. Later, Jerry ventured to San Francisco where she lived for three years with girlfriends and enjoyed her independence. In 1959, she moved back to Portland to marry James Phelan, originally from Indiana. They became the proud parents of Michael in 1960; Patricia in 1961; Kelly in 1963; and Timothy in 1964. Jim worked for the Southern Pacific Railroad where several co-workers became life-long friends of the couple. Many other friendships were made square dancing as members of the Gladstone Happy Rockers club. Jerry learned to camp outdoors and enjoyed many family vacations where fishing and boating were the main event. The family camped extensively throughout Oregon, Washington, and Canada. Jerry loved cooking, golf, sewing, taking photos and video, gardening, the arts, bible studies, John Wayne movies, all things Irish, and the 4th of July. As an adult, she learned to play the fiddle and paint; and was involved in volksmarching in the 80's. Her favorite thing, however, was spending time with her entire family - anytime, anywhere. She started her work career as a secretary in Portland and continued in San Francisco. After marriage, Jerry wore many hats: as a stay-at-home mom, Avon lady, involved in TOPS, and as a Weight Watchers lecturer. She went to work in the Transportation Department for the City of Portland as an executive secretary. When she retired, Jerry was able to focus on her family again while managing her health issues including Diabetes, Heart Disease and resulting complications. Last year she attended her 60th Class Reunion where she reconnected with classmates from Jefferson High. Her sense of humor was enjoyed by absolutely everybody. She will always bring a smile to the face of anyone who knew her...and a laugh to those lucky enough to know her well. Preceeded in death by her beloved son, Timmy in 1966; brother, Jeff in 1993; and husband, Jim in 2004 Service Information