Gerald L. Kershner

Gerald L. Kershner, 81 of Berwick, passed away Saturday, April 23, 2016 at his residence. He was born July, 17, 1934, a son to the late Luther and Marie (Chappell) Kershner. A graduate of Berwick High School, Class of 1952, Gerald continued his education at Bloomsburg State Teachers College, graduating in 1956. Following graduation, Gerald left Berwick and eventually came to reside in Los Angeles, CA., where he worked as a manager in the insurance business. After retiring, Gerald returned to Berwick and acquired his family's historic home. He had the distinction of being the great-grandson of the Jackson family's coachman and was the Kershner family's fourth generation to live in the coachman's home. Gerald was a very altruistic person who supported many organizations. His greatest passion was helping with the restoration of the Jackson Mansion. His generosity can be seen in almost every room of the mansion. Gerald completely restored the Colonel's Office and co-sponsored the Garrison Room with Crystal Canouse. Gerald's contributions exceeded monetary donations and included many items located throughout the mansion and its associated grounds. Additionally, he provided a great wealth of history and knowledge pertaining to the facility. He had dreamed of seeing the Jackson Mansion restored from Berwick City Hall back to the original Jackson residence and was able to see that dream realized after The Berwick Historical Society, of which Gerald was a life member and board member, was able to obtain the grounds and begin the restoration process. Surviving Gerald is his sister, Marilyn Eckroth of CO., and cousins: Penny Slusser, of Berwick, and Pat Shanner, of Pittsburgh. Jerry had a way of captivating people with his stories and charm and will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Visitation is 6:00-8:00 PM Thursday, April 28 at the Jackson Mansion, 344 North Market Street, Berwick. His funeral is 2:00 PM Friday at the Jackson Mansion. Pastor Thomas Jones of the First United Methodist Church of Berwick, will serve as the officiant. Burial will follow at Pine Grove Cemetery, Walnut Street. Memorial contributions to be used for continuing the restoration of the Colonel's Office at the mansion can be sent to the Berwick Historical Society, P. O. Box 301, Berwick, PA. 18603.