Obituary of Gerald R Budgett

It is with bittersweet sadness that Gerald R Budgett passed away peacefully at home, where he wanted to be on December 23, 2023 with his loving family at his side. Gerald got his wish to be with his wife, Dorothy, for Christmas this year. We are so grateful for having him for 95 years and the good lord saw he was tired and took him home. 

Gerald was born September 3, 1928 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota to George E Budgett and Erminine Duffy. He was one of 2 children. Gerald and his sister Jane Thompson were close growing up and spent many years travelinig to the family cabin at Long Lake in Park Rapids, Minnesota. Many fun and wonderful times were spent at the lake. 

Gerald grew up in Sioux Falls where he met the love of his life, Dorothy Jean Vick, while he was attending Washington High School. They soon became sweethearts and married in 1949. 

Gerald spent 4 years in the Sioux Falls naval reserve while also stationed in the Marshall Islands. After his discharge in 1952, he went back to Sioux Falls where he worked for Builder's Supply Company and he and Dorothy raised their 4 children. 

He was active in flying, Boy Scouts, AHC, Shrine Mason, sailing, his church, but most of all the love, devotion and dedication he gave to his Lord and family. 

It was in 1985 when he and Dorothy retired to Mesa, Arizona. They enjoyed the warm weather as well as entertaining family and friends. 

Gerald always said no one had a better life than he did and he loved every minute of it!

He is proceeded in death by his loving wife, Dorothy, and his parents. 

He leaves behind his sister Jane Thompson of Sioux Falls, brother-in-law Thomas (Anita) Vick of San Diego. Also his 4 children, daughter Vicki Lee Dannhaus (Dr. Dale) of Las Cruces, NM, son Stephen Budgett of Gilbert, AZ, daughter Marsha Budgett of Chandler, AZ, and son Bill (Shelly) Budgett of Boulder City, NV. 

Grandchildren Kaiya Kargas, Josh (Harriet) Dannhaus, Amy (Michael) Saucerman, Dana (Parissa) Exline, Alex Budgett, Brittany (Ian) Butterbaugh, Ryan Budgett, Nicole (Taylor) Lot

Ten great-grandchildren Hunter, Logan, Brady, Jackson, Easton, Kasadee, Everest, Norah, Cooper, Peyton and numerous nieces and nephews. 

A family memorial will be planned at a later date with interment at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona.

Donations can be made to Hospice of the Valley or a donation of your choosing.