Carmi Times Tue Aug 18, 2009 FLORIDA - Gerald B. Hood, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend, passed away at his Florida home on July 29, 2009 after a courageous battle with cancer. Jerry, as everyone called him, was a man with multiple talents. He was outgoing, full of energy and brought the life to every party. He was known for making his delicious "Garbage can turkey" and frying up the fish from the days' catch. He especially enjoyed wowing his grandchildren with his amazing stories, tricks and jokes. Jerry was born on Oct. 25, 1934 in Springerton to Harry and Velma (Foley) Hood. He graduated from Boone Grove High School in Porter County, Ind., where he was an outstanding athlete. He married Eva Leah Dacey on Sept. 15, 1956. They resided in Valparaiso, Ind., where he worked over 40 years for the PowderTech Corp. (Indiana General). Jerry's strong work ethic advanced him to plant manager. After his retirement, Jerry and Eva moved to Lake Placid, Fla. There he enjoyed golfing, fishing and spending time with his many dear friends. Jerry is survived by his wife, Eva; three daughters, Shere Butterfield, Christine (Ed) Hines and Katherine (Mark) Fischer; seven grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren; and one sister, Loretta Ritsch of Carmi. Preceding him in death are his parents; two brothers, Floyd and Ronnie Hood; and a sister, Sharon Sheppard. Services were held at 3 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 12 at the Sanctuary of Hope Chapel in Graceland Cemetery in Valparaiso, Ind. Contributions can be made in Jerry's honor to the American Cancer Society.