Gerald “Jerry” Lee Polzin
July 29, 1947-February 2, 2026

Gerald Lee Polzin was born on July 29, 1947, in Arcata, California, the eldest of three children of John and Evelyn Polzin. He grew up in Arcata and graduated from Arcata High School in 1965.

In 1966, Jerry enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He proudly served in Vietnam, where he was wounded in combat and awarded two Purple Hearts. He was honorably discharged in November 1967.

Following his military service, Jerry attended Humboldt State University, earning a B.A. in Business. He married Sharon Jowers in 1976, and their marriage ended in 2007. He began his career with Cal Farm Insurance, where his dedication and strong leadership quickly moved him into management.

Jerry is preceded in death by his father, John Polzin; his mother, Evelyn Polzin; his sister, Laurie Rapp; and his nephew, Joshua Rapp.

He is survived by his son, Shawn Polzin (Jen); his daughter, Kimberly Johnstone (Braden); and his brother, Rick Polzin. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Presley, Luke, and Isabella.

Jerry is finally at peace after a yearlong battle with cancer.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Jerry Polzin’s family. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.