Gerald C. Kitzmiller

Kitzmiller, Gerald C., 83, of Bellevue, Nebraska was born October, 15, 1942 in Johnstown, Pennsylvania entered into rest December, 14, 2025 in Bellevue.

Gerald proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for 30 years, building a highly decorated career as an Explosive Ordinance Disposal Master Technician.  He lived their motto “complete success or total failure, “he joked.  He was certainly an expert, having retired “with all his fingers and most of his hearing.”  He rose to the rank of Chief Master Sergeant in 17 years, ultimately serving in his dream position as chief of EOD at Strategic Air Command Headquarters at Offutt Air Force Base.  He retired in March 1990 and spent the first year of retirement armchair quarterbacking the decisions of Desert Storm from his alternate command post at home in Bellevue. 

He continued his EOD professional life as a Safety Consultant to UXB International and Montgomery Watson, lending his extensive knowledge and expertise to ensure precision plans and the safety of his men, who knew him as “Uncle Jerry” outside of work.  He enjoyed camping, bluegrass music , and “ripping the lips off bass” fishing in his boat with whoever he could find to join his excursions. 

His life was devoted to his family, and he will be remembered lovingly as “Pap-Pap” and “Cheap Chief.”  His dogs, Sadie and Zoey, also miss him very much. 

The family would like to thank the local DAV in Bellevue, Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy (HETRA) staff, Hillcrest Mabel Rose staff, and St. Croix Hospice staff for all their care and support.   Also, much love to our neighbors, Jenny, Jackie, Jeff and Julie, and Barkley.  We remember every kindness you ever showed him and us.  We have it now Dad.  We’ll continue to watch out for unattended bags and remember, no fireworks on the 4th of July. 

Gerald is survived by his wife of 62 and a half years Mary; children Tammy Kogut (Michael), Gordon Kitzmiller, Todd Kitzmiller (Tammy); grandchildren Nathaniel (Jaclyn), Brendan, Sienna & Jessica; great grandchildren Harper, Mason & Connor; sister Patti Sue Boring.  He is preceded in death by his parents and a brother Dennis. 

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday May 16 at 1:00 p.m. at the Jon  A. Meese Funeral Home – Seward.  Military Rites to be handled by the  Conemaugh Valley Detachment # 287 Marine Corp League.  

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