Gerald "Jerry" Hirtzer

Gerald (Jerry) Joseph Hirtzer, 79, of Bradenton, FL passed away peacefully Saturday, August 14, 2021 surrounded by his family.  Jerry was born in Harvey, IL on September 12, 1941 to the late Joe and Ina Hirtzer.

Jerry served in the United States Air Force from 1958-1966, serving in Alaska, Germany and across the continental U.S.  After his military service, Jerry joined the U.S. Postal Inspection Service where he retired after a distinguished, 22-year career.  During his tenure with the Postal Service, Jerry primarily worked on cases involving major fraud and was integral to several high-profile cases, working jointly with other major federal law enforcement agencies.

Jerry was a gentle and kind person with a larger-than-life personality.  He was never short of stories or experiences and possessed a wealth of valuable knowledge and wisdom.  He was an avid golfer who enjoyed playing and collecting memorabilia.

While Jerry’s favorite pastime was golf, his true passion was his family.  He is survived by the love of his life of over 62 years, Sharon Rose Hirtzer, and their three children: Mike Hirtzer of Nashville, TN, Rodney (Kelly) Hirtzer of Hermitage, TN, and Konnie Vella of Tampa, FL.  Jerry was a devoted grandfather to Jennifer Dillingham, John (Megan) Vella, Victoria Hirtzer, Gabrielle (TJ) McAninch, and Clint (Jenna) Hirtzer.  Jerry was a loving great-grandfather of Rylie Dillingham, Nathan Dillingham, Cole Johnson, Westin Johnson, Jack McAninch, and Nolan Vella.  He is survived by two sisters Cheryl (Danny) Lewis of Metropolis, IL, Janet Metzger of Vienna, IL, and sister-in-law Betty Sutfin of St. Louis, MO.  Jerry is also survived by his beloved dog Bella.

Memorial services will be held at Harpeth Hills Memorial Garden,9090 Hwy 100, Nashville, TN 37221 on Wednesday, August 25th, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. with interment to follow at Middle Tennessee State Veteran’s Cemetery Rotunda at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, the American Heart Association, or a charity of your choice.