Gerhard Anton Froehlich

Gerhard "Jerry" Anton Froehlich, a man of courage, handiness, and intelligence, left this world on July 5, 2024, at the age of 84. Born on April 3, 1940, in Germany, Gerry embarked on a life that would be marked by dedication, service, and the love of family. His departure from Enterprise, Alabama, leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew and cherished him.

Jerry's early years in Germany laid a foundation of resilience and resourcefulness that he carried with him when he moved to the United States at the tender age of 18. His sense of adventure led him to join the US Army, a decision that saw him stationed in Alaska, where he even tried his hand at cross-country skiing in his 20s. After his service, he settled in Newton, Alabama, for several years before moving to Dothan, where he would become a well-respected member of his community.

He dedicated over four decades of his life to his work as an A & P Inspector at Ft. Novosel, known for his unwavering commitment and work ethic. Jerry was not one to shy away from hard work, often holding down two jobs. During the day, he was the proud owner and operator of the VW Shop in Newton, and by night, he continued his service at Ft. Novosel. His diligence was as much a part of him as his frugality and thriftiness, traits that served him and his loved ones well throughout his life.

Jerry's personal life was rich with the love of his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Shirah Froehlich; his daughter, Heidi (Kevin) Searcy; his sons, Randy Clark and Ronnie Clark; his beloved grandchildren, Jasmin Clark, Kelsey Hovey, Cameron Hovey, Robbie Clark, Gary Allen (Mindy) Clark, and Erika (David) Clark; and his cherished great-grandchildren, Laney Clark and Sam Clark. He also leaves behind his centenarian mother, Hedwig Froehlich, in Germany. Jerry was preceded in death by his son, Allen Clark, a loss that he carried with him with great sorrow.

Though Jerry was known to be tough to love at times, as life went on, he softened, opening his heart more with each passing year. His interests varied from playing cards with family and friends to tinkering on and rebuilding old cars, like his treasured Oldsmobile. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life and was always ready to share a laugh or lend a helping hand.

As we remember Jerry, we are reminded of the words of Albert Einstein, "Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile." Jerry lived by this ethos, always putting the needs of others before his own, whether it was through his military service or in the quiet moments spent with his family.

A celebration of Jerry's life will be held at 11 am on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Charles Goldsmith officiating. Gerry will be laid to rest with military honors at Sunset Memorial Park, a fitting tribute to a man who served his country with pride and honor. Friends and family are invited to gather and share memories from 10-11 am at the funeral home before the service.

Jerry's legacy is not only in the work he accomplished or the service he rendered but in the love he gave and the lives he touched. His memory will be cherished, and his presence deeply missed. As we bid farewell to Gerhard "Jerry" Froehlich, we hold tight to the memories and the lessons he imparted on us all.