Gerald Melvin Hurff's Obituary
Gerald Melvin Hurff, 82, of Manassas, Virginia, passed away at Prince William Hospital on November 2, 2024. Born on July 12, 1942, in Swedesboro, New Jersey, Jerry was the son of the late Allen and Gwendolyn (Perry) Hurff.
Jerry graduated from Swedesboro High School in 1961, After graduation, Jerry attended Salem County Technical Institute, where he studied Scientific Glassblowing. He later attended Northern Virginia Community College earning a degree in Electrical Engineering. Jerry worked as a Glassblower for IBM for many years, specializing in semi-conductors and chemical glassware. Many of Jerry’s glassware designs were standard tools used in the semi-conductor industry. He also designed a tool that was used to cut some of the first rocks brought from the moon.
On December 17, 1965, Jerry married his high school sweetheart, Mary Lou, and raised 3 children together. In his spare time, Jerry enjoyed woodworking, tool making, glassblowing for family and friends, and knife collecting. He was a member of the North South Skirmish Association, where he reenacted Civil War battles.
Jerry is survived by his children, Gwendolyn Hurff Wood (Jeffrey) of Manassas, VA, Allene Hurff Frederick (Peter) of Lexington, KY, and Allen Hurff of Baltimore, MD; his grandchildren, Emily (Kyle), Victoria, Caitlyn, and Charles; his sister, Allene Kelly (John) of Swedesboro, NJ; his brother, Edgar Hurff (Kathy); and his many nephews, nieces, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his wife Mary Lou (Crist) Hurff.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Jerry’s legacy of love, innovation, and generosity will endure through the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
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