Jerry Arnold Macke

Jerry Arnold Macke, born October 25, 1938 in Dayton, Washington passed away July 4 th , 2023 at his
home in Cottonwood, Arizona. He was 84 years old.
By his bedside was his life partner and wife of 60 years Dodie, son Richard, daughter Shellie Coburn and
grandson Brett Coburn.
At the age of 8 years old his parents moved the family from Washington to Sitka, Alaska. It was there
that Jerry found his love for the sport of baseball. A love that would follow him throughout the rest of
his life. And a love that was shared to many through coaching.
After graduating high school he spent time attending Oregon State University as well as time in the
Army. Life ultimately led him to Flagstaff, Arizona where he attended Norther Arizona State University
where he graduated with a Masters in Psychology.
It was during this time that he met his soon to be life partner, Dodie Mickle. The two were married on
December 29, 1962. Soon after they moved to Lompoc, California where Jerry began teaching
Psychology at Cabrillo Senior High School until 1980. All along, he was coaching baseball and basketball
to kids and teens.
He touched the lives of thousands of people over his lifetime through his teaching, coaching and
friendships.
Later in life Jerry authored two books that were published. One, titled “A Patriot the Conservative
Voice” brought enlightenment about our current political space across the country. He was very proud
of this book.
He was preceded in death by his parents Bill and Sally Richard, and his brother Buddy Smith.
Jerry leaves behind his wife Dodie of Cottonwood, AZ, son Richard of Lake Havasu, AZ and daughter
Shellie Coburn of Cottonwood, AZ. His Sister Sherry Kerr of Lompoc, CA, Brother & Sister-in-law Les and
Terri Mickle, son in law Dale Coburn and daughter-in-law Jennifer Macke.
He has 5 grandchildren, Brett Coburn and his wife Nicole of Winston-Salem, NC, Amanda Steele and her
husband Billy of Rosenberg, TX. Chelsea McDonough of Omaha, NE, Christian Macke of Pico Rivera, CA.
and Samantha Harrell of Scottsbluff, NE.
Jerry’s great grandchildren are Payton Coburn, Brady Coburn, Carson Coburn, Harper Coburn, Reagan
Steele, Madison Steele, Gwen McDonough, Kieran McDonough and Everly Smith. And a large number of
extended family members.
He was our husband, father, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother in law and family patriarch.
He was the best of the best throughout his life. We will miss and cherish him for the rest of our lives for
his life will live on through us.
Per his request the family will not be holding services.

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