Jerry R. DeSpain, of Palm Desert, passed away Monday, Sept. 1, 2008, at Veterans Hospital in Loma Linda after a brief illness. Sadly, the very next day his beloved little dog Joey unexpectedly went to be with Jerry.

Born Jan. 16, 1943 in Redlands to Mildred Brock and Robert DeSpain, both deceased, Jerry graduated from Redlands High School in 1960. He then served eight years in the U.S. Air Force stationed in Turkey with tours of duty in surrounding countries.

During the 1970s and 1980s, Jerry owned nine retail furniture stores in Southern California and Nevada.

Jerry was a member of the Palm Desert Board of Realtors for 25 years. During these years he also worked for the Lake Hemet Municipal Water District as a park manager for 15 years near Idyllwild.

Services will be held at The Center for Spiritual Living, 45-630 Portola Ave., Palm Desert, at noon Saturday, Sept. 13. For more information or directions, call (760) 346-4649.
Jerry is survived by his wife of 32 years, Emilie Carole; a son, Steve De Spain Christoff of Mountain Center; a daughter, Lisa L. King of Indio; a sister, Sue Goldbransen of Redlands; three grandchildren, Samantha E. Sullins of Palm Desert, Michael L. King of Indio and Danielle A. King of Indio; and one expected great-grandchild.
Vaya con Dios, Jerry.