Gerard John Ferrara

Gerard John Ferrara

7/22/2024

Gerard John Ferrara of DeLand, Florida, passed away at the age of 94 on July 22, 2024, after a long illness.

Gerard was born on May 27, 1930, to Salvator and Giovanna Ferrara in Bristol, Rhode Island. After graduating from La Salle Academy, he went on to study civil engineering at the University of Rhode Island. Gerard proudly served in the U.S. Army. After earning his degree in civil engineering, he began his career with the City of St. Petersburg, Florida, as a city engineer, marking the start of a distinguished 55-year career in civil engineering. He also held positions with Volusia County and the City of DeLand and later established his own private engineering firm, Ferrara Engineering Inc. In 2012, Gerard retired and devoted his time to camping and traveling, though his passion for engineering never waned.

Gerard met Peggy J. Harvell at a friend's house in St. Petersburg, Florida. They married in 1969 and enjoyed 55 years together. They had three children: Rodney Ferrara, Jan (Stan) Lilly, and Robin Ferrara, and two grandchildren: Samantha Lilly and Cameron Lilly.

Gerard is predeceased by his parents, Salvator and Giovanna Ferrara, his sister Anna Ferrara, and his brother Salvatore Ferrara II. He is survived by his loving wife Peggy, their children, grandchildren, and his older sister Mary Ferrara.

A service will be held at Lankford Funeral Home in DeLand, Florida, on Saturday, July 27, 2024. A visitation will begin at 1:00 PM, with the service starting at 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Gerard's name to Halifax Health Hospice in Orange City, Florida.

Gerard will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his unwavering passion for engineering, and his adventurous spirit.