Obituary of Gerard Michael Perna

Gerard “Jerry” Perna passed away peacefully on July 16, 2026, after living 91 wonderful years filled with love, hard work, and cherished memories.

Born on September 18, 1934, in Newark, New Jersey, Jerry was the son of Salvatore Perna and Theresa DeLuca. He was raised in Newark alongside his siblings and many cousins, where he developed the strong work ethic and determination that would guide him throughout his life. After graduating from Central High School, Jerry entered the workforce but soon discovered a passion for engineering. Determined to pursue that calling, he enrolled at the Newark College of Engineering, now known as the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), where he earned his bachelor's degree.

Jerry went on to build an extraordinary career with Picatinny Arsenal, dedicating more than 40 years of service as an engineer. His expertise and innovation contributed to the development of critical machinery used throughout the country, including equipment that played an important role during the Gulf War. He took great pride in his work and the lasting impact it had, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues throughout his distinguished career.

In August of 1964, Jerry married the love of his life, Patricia. Together they shared more than 57 years of unwavering love, partnership, and devotion. They made their home in Rockaway, where they raised their family and created a lifetime of treasured memories together.

Retirement gave Jerry the opportunity to embrace another of his greatest passions: travel. Whether exploring Europe, cruising the Caribbean, visiting Hawaii, or setting off on countless other adventures, Jerry loved experiencing the world. Many of his favorite trips were spent aboard cruise ships with Patricia or surrounded by his family, creating stories and memories that will be cherished for generations.

Above all else, Jerry treasured his family. He spent countless hours watching his children develop their passions. Some of his happiest moments were spent with his grandchildren, especially traditional Christmas celebrations with the entire family near or far. He found immense joy in watching them grow and sharing with them the places and activities they loved.

Jerry was also horse racing enthusiast and spent many afternoons at the Meadowlands. He was also a devoted New York sports fan. He could always be counted on to cheer for the Yankees during baseball season and the Giants every football season, celebrating the victories and enduring the losses with the same unwavering loyalty.

Jerry will be remembered for his intelligence, humility, dedication, and quiet strength. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, love of family, and a life well lived. He is now survived by his beloved children; Linda Dougherty (David), Janice Anderson (Scott), Michael Perna (Melissa), his grandchildren, Kieran Dougherty, Brianna Dougherty, Julia Anderson, Olivia Anderson, Troy Perna, Kylie Perna, and his sister, Lucille Waszak. He is now reunited with his beloved wife, Patricia Ann Perna, his parents, Salvatore and Theresa Perna, and his siblings, Patrick and Agnes Perna. We find tremendous peace and comfort knowing that he held on and reunited with his true love, Patricia, on the 4th anniversary of her passing.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers that memorial donations be sent in Jerry’s memory to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Donations can be made by clicking this link.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, July 20, at 10:30 AM at Gate of Heaven Mausoleum, 225 Ridgedale Road, East Hanover, NJ. Please come and celebrate the life of this incredible man!