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Gerald Lee Hitt, age 78, was born in Pleasant Hill, Missouri on November 28, 1931 and left this world on August 12, 2010. He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Martha Hitt; and a son Jerry. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Lois; son Raymond of Albuquerque; son Charles, his wife Dinnara, and their children Ashley and Matthew of Huntington Beach CA; and aunt Betty and uncle Don of Burlington IA. He graduated from Manual Training High School in Peoria, IL and received a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Bradley University. After graduating from Bradley, Gerald embarked on a 22-year career in the United States Air Force obtaining the final rank of Lt. Colonel. During this time he received a MS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Oklahoma and carried out assignments at the Special Weapons Center, Kirtland AFB, the Air Force Western Test Range, Vandenberg AFB, CA, the Defense Atomic Support Agency, Sandia AFB, and the Directorate of Nuclear Surety, Kirtland AFB. After retiring from the Air Force, he held positions with the Mason and Hanger-Silas Mason, Dynalectron, and BDM Corporations. During his time in the Air Force, Gerald discovered a small ex-mining town in Colorado, White Pine, and bought an old cabin there. For over 15 years he researched the history of the town and surrounding area, conducted interviews of past and present residents, and published a monthly newsletter named for the towns former newspaper, The White Pine Cone. Jerry has been cremated. A memorial service will be held in White Pine next summer. We would like to thank the Albuquerque VA Medical Center and the VistaCare hospice for the care they provided. In lieu of flowers please remember a special person by contributing to the White Pine Water Association, 552 Mill Rd, Madison AL 35758. Cremation services were provided by the Riverside Funeral Home of Albuquerque, 225 San Mateo NE, 764-9663.
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