In Loving Memory of Jerry Richard Mudica
Our beloved Jerry Richard Mudica, lovingly nicknamed 'Mud' or 'Brother Mud' passed away into God's eternal care on November 29, 2012. He was 71. Jerry had suffered a long illness and his family and friends know his tribulations are finished and he will now abide in endless peace and love.
Born April 8th, 1941 in Redwood City, California, Jerry and his family traveled throughout the Northwest during his childhood as his father, a Pentecostal minister formed new congregations and built churches. Jerry first learned to play the guitar and sing at these services.
He was living in Estacada, OR at the time of his death.
Jerry had settled in the Portland area in the 1960's and built a musical career with a multitude of musicians, as well as working in various fields. For a time he worked for Safeway as a Journeyman Produce Handler, and he also spent some years as a welder. Whatever work or play Jerry took on he was determined to master the task and very rarely gave up until he'd accomplished what he set out to do. He was a very intelligent man with an always curious mind.
He was a brilliant musician and artist, and creative on so many other levels. Jerry and Dick 'Papa' Spain had a whim in the 1990's, to go and compete in a regional Old Time Fiddlers' Association contest. Dick played fiddle with Jerry as accompanist on guitar. Without quite knowing how structured and timed the rules were, they managed to take first place. This was the beginning of many trips for such contests, where with the accompaniment of friends several national 2nd place prizes went to Papa Spain, at the yearly event in Weiser, Idaho.
Jerry's talents extended to artwork in many media, most notably he became an expert Scrimshander and his pieces are among the most intricate and clever Scrimshaw works ever designed.
Jerry had a green thumb and could make any plant grow. For years he and his wife Mary kept a lovely organic garden and private haven of a yard. He donated much of what they grew to Snowcap to help feed those in need of fresh wholesome produce. Jerry loved good food and became an accomplished cook.
Jerry loved the ocean; in fact he loved to drop everything and just take a day trip anywhere, in any weather, on any budget. He loved to fish the lakes and rivers, but his favorite destination was 'the beach'. He always had a dream that he would move to live somewhere near the ocean.
And Jerry loved his family. He was so proud of his sons Randol and Jeremy. Jerry adored his children and grandchildren He considered his pets as part of the family along with various Grand-Doggies. He was a true animal lover and would often rescue birds, dogs, cats….even once a squealing pot-belly pig. In his last years his daily routine included long walks with Rosie, his dog, and Mary. The woods and trails and friendliness of the city of Estacada were perfect for his walks.
Jerry is survived by his wife Mary, his sons Randol Mudica and Jeremy Gillaspie, his Grandchildren Hailey, Damon, and Nathanial, Byron and Alesha. Also he is survived by his sister Shirley McKenzie of Centralia WA, and his Nieces and Nephews.
Jerry's love and humor and brilliance can never be replaced and we will miss him always.
A memorial service and Jam Session (as Jerry would have wanted) will be held:
Sunday December 8th, 2012 at 2PM
Shirley's Tippy Canoe
28242 Historic Columbia River Hwy Troutdale, OR 97060 (503) 492-2220
On-line condolences can be made to the family at;www.rosecityfuneralhome.com
Celebration of Life Gathering
ShirleyA�a��a��s Tippy Canoe
28242 Historic Columbia River Hwy
Troutdale
,
OR
US
Saturday, December 8, 2012, 2:00 PM