Jerome Jerry Steven Van De Water, 75, of Safford, entered into rest on November 4, 2012 while surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on January 2, 1937 in New York, NY to Stephen and Rosemary Van De Water. Jerry served honorably for many years in the United States Navy as an ETC. During his years of service he received six Good Conduct awards, two Meritorious Unit Commendations, the Vietnam Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, China Service Medal and the National Defense Medal. He retired from active duty in 1977. Jerry is survived by his wife of 30 years Jini Van De Water; his children, Angie (Lloyd) Adams, JoAnna (Damien) Stone, James (Sara) Van De Water, Michael (Bonnie) Van De Water, Michelle (Serge) Gomez, Steven (Carol) Van De Water; 19 grandchildren; and his sister Nancy Zigabarra. He is preceded in death by his parents, Rosemary and Stephen Van De Water. A Memorial service for Jerry will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 7th at McDougals Caldwell Funeral Chapel.