Jerrold William Garzelli

Jerry passed away at home on Friday, March 20, 2026. 

Jerry, known by many as “Chopper”, was born and raised in Petaluma. He spent most of his life living on D Street and working on his family dairy farm. He is survived by his wife Rosemary (Balistreri) and daughters Stevie Irby (Jeremy) and Mary Booth (Jake), grandchildren Blake Irby, Dylan Irby, Miles Booth and Gus Booth. He is survived by his sisters Toni Luiz and Lori Glenn as well as many brothers and sisters-in-law, and nieces and nephews on his side and Rosemary’s. He has many friends of all ages, some he has known since childhood. He is preceded in death by his father (Elmo Garzelli), mother (Irene Garzelli), sister (Betty Jo Reich) and brother (Richard Garzelli). 

Jerry will be remembered for his quick wit, hard work, honesty and legacy. He was a dairyman on the Garzelli Brothers Dairy with his father (Elmo Garzelli) and brother (Richard Garzelli) for over 40 years until they sold the farm in 2000. He then worked as a squeeze driver for Toby’s Trucking and Choppers Squeeze Service, unloading hay trucks all over the area. He was the president of Hicks Valley Gun Club and many memories were made under his and his family’s leadership. He could often be found on the property driving his side by side, fixing fence, spaying thistles or just taking his grandkids on a joy ride. He was one of a kind and will be missed by many. 

A Memorial Service will be held Friday, March 27th, 2026 at 1:00pm at Parent-Sorensen Mortuary & Crematory, 850 Keokuk Street, Petaluma, CA 94952.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to Petaluma Hospice.