Gerald Soos

Gerald Lewis Soos, born on June 25th, 1942, in Wheeling, West Virginia, to Elizabeth Josephine Yanssens of Maynard, Ohio, and Elmer Vincent Soos of Adena, Ohio, peacefully passed away at his home in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on Saturday, November 25th. Known as Jerry among his friends, he began his educational journey in Stow, Ohio, attending elementary school and later graduated from Kent Roosevelt High School in the class of 1960. A dedicated athlete, he earned four years as a letterman in Football, Baseball, and Track during his high school tenure.

In 1963, he crossed paths with Emma, whom he married in February 1964 at the Kent State University Chapel in Kent, Ohio. The newlyweds embarked on their life journey, initially settling in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and opening their business Soos' Nursery before eventually making Albuquerque their home in late 1960. It was in the northeast heights of Albuquerque that Jerry and Emma welcomed their twin daughters, Nicole and Heather.

During his time in New Mexico, Jerry served honorably in the NM National Guard from '66-'72. Professionally, he was engaged with various companies but notably it was his time as a small business owner of a Conoco gas station that many will recall. Beyond his professional pursuits, Jerry had a deep love for motorcross, fishing, hunting, football, and a passion for the outdoors. He was instrumental in establishing a bass fishing organization in Albuquerque, earning the title of Angler of the Year in New Mexico in the early 80s. His enthusiasm for hunting and fishing were infectious and he generously shared this passion with others.

Jerry is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Emma, and his daughters, Heather Clark of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Nicole Fraley of Granville, Ohio. He leaves behind three beloved grandchildren: Rowdy Clark (21), a Navy veteran currently pursuing certification in skilled trades; Sophia Fraley (19), attending the University of Central Florida majoring in Computer Science; and Stone Fraley (17), a Senior attending Granville High School. Jerry is also survived by his younger sister, Terry Soos Ensign and was preceded in death by his youngest sister, Becky Soos Sherlag.

A Celebration of Life honoring Jerry's journey will be held on Wednesday, December 6th, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, at French's Reception facility located at 10500 Lomas Blvd, from 5:00-7:00 PM. Given Jerry's connections to Ohio, a second Celebration of Life will take place in Granville, Ohio, on Sunday, June 2nd (further details will follow). In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the American Heart Association in Jerry's memory. Please visit our online guestbook for Gerald Soos at www.FrenchFunerals.com