BANGOR — Jerome “Jerry” Charles Kaul, 76, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family April 7, after a 47-year battle with type I diabetes.

He was born July 18, 1935, in Rumford, son of Julia (Beeaker) and Charles (Kaulakis) Kaul.

He graduated from Stephens High School and entered the U.S. Air Force. He served as captain in the 71st SAC. He piloted a KC-97G air refueling tanker. It was the dream of his life! He was a member of the Disabled American Veterans.

As a civilian, he graduated from the University of Maine at Orono with a B.S. in business administration and retired after 28 years with GTE. Jerry was a devoted husband, father, Papa and friend. He enjoyed family, planes, travel, fishing, hunting, Lithuanian heritage, community service with Lion’s Club, pranks, jokes, and lots of laughter.

Jerry is survived by his wife of nearly 55 years, Vivian (Nelson) of Orrington; son, Richard J. Kaul and wife, Sue, of Millinocket; daughter, Lynne Kaul Cox and husband, Dan, of Orrington; son, Michael C. Kaul and wife, Lynn, of Manchester, N.H.; grandsons, Richard II and Cory Kaul, DJ Cox, and Benjamin Kaul (USMC); one granddaughter, Mikayla Kaul; sisters, Patricia Hopkins of Rumford and Barbara Buxton and husband, Rick, of Orwell, Vt.; and many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends across the country.

Jerry was predeceased by his parents; sister, Mary Ann; and grandson, Ryan.

You are invited to share your thoughts, condolences and fond memories with the Kaul family by visiting their guest book at www.SGThibaultFuneralHome.com.