Gerald Wayne Whitehead

(Ogema Kkezo), passed away on Saturday, April 14, 2012 at his home on Bainbridge Island, Washington. He was born on November 25, 1950 in Seattle, Washington. He was 61 years of age.Jerry graduated from Nathan Hale High School and attended Edmonds Community College. He worked as a Journeyman Carpenter for several years alongside his father and brother in their construction firm, building homes and later restaurants (remodeling). He was the facilities director for Azteca Restaurants and most recently he worked with Smith and Greene in restaurant equipment sales. He was well known and loved throughout the industry. Jerry loved his tools and was always building both creative and practical items - one of which was an Aztec Monument displayed in the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. He enjoyed golf and cherished his time on the course with his golf buddies. He also loved to cook and was dedicated to all things BBQ.Jerry was deeply connected to his Native American roots, and was a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation-People of the Place of the Fire. He loved drumming, beading and craftwork. He was best known for his big heart, graceful spirit, sense of humor and positive attitude.He is survived by his wife Judy Whitehead of Bainbridge Island, children: Briana Whitehead of Bainbridge Island and Julie Kuehn (Rich) of Edmonds, WA. He also leaves behind his granddaughters: Haylie and Natalie Kuehn of Edmonds, WA, also his sister Susan Vander Hoek (John) of Indianola, WA and her sons Peter and David. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents: Alpheus and Hilma Whitehead and his brother Gary Whitehead.Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend the Celebration of Life Service on Sunday, April 29, 2012 at 3:00 PM at the Suquamish Community House (The House of Awakened Culture) in Squamish, WA.Memorial contributions can be made to: Citizen Potawatomi Nation Scholarship Fund (for CPN members to receive undergraduate and graduate assistance) and sent to: Greg Quinan Citizen Potawatomi Nation / 1601 S Gordon Cooper Dr / Shawnee, OK 74801 or to Demand Cures Today - The Gateway for Cancer Research: http://www.demandcurestoday.org/Please sign the online Guest Book for the family.