Gerald was a 1957 graduate of Crosbyton High School and continued on to receive his B.S. Degree from Texas Tech University. Shortly afterward he moved his family to Louisiana after accepting a promising business opportunity, and continued a 36 year career with Willamette Industries becoming the Administrative Manager of the South for much of his tenure. Those that know him best would say that his success was attributed to his colorful personality and sense of humor, as well as his advanced skills in negotiation and creative problem solving.