Gerald Edward Wingate, retired police officer
Gerald Edward Wingate, 78, passed away peacefully at home Monday, Sept. 7, 2020.
Gerald was born to the late Jasper and Elizabeth Wingate. He was preceded in death by his son J.R. Wingate, Florence Wingate, Elsie Howard and John P. Howard. Gerald graduated from Lewes High School and attended Delaware Technical Community College studying criminal justice and business. He graduated from the Delaware State Police Academy in 1973, and attended the DEA Drug Enforcement Academy. He held a private pilot’s license and was an instructor for commercial and instrument flight. He was a police officer with Milford Police Department in the traffic and detective divisions. Gerald also spent part of his professional career in private security services and demolition.
Gerald was an involved member of the Delmarva Harley Owners Group and served as the treasurer of the DE Chapter of the Law Dogs Motorcycle Club. He is a life member of the NRA. Gerald is a member of the Masonic Lodge (Franklin Lodge #12), Delaware Scottish Rite Consistory (32nd Degree), and The Shriners. Gerald was an original member of the Delaware Mobile Surf Fishermen Club.
Gerald served in the U.S. Navy, 1959-71, and was a combat veteran in Vietnam with the 3rd Marine Division.
After retiring, Gerald enjoyed many interests and hobbies, including riding his Harley-Davidson, playing golf, painting, playing cards, and shooting his guns. He and Virginia also enjoyed traveling with family and friends in their motorhome, taking motorcycle trips, and relaxing at condos on the beach. Besides Virginia, Gerald’s love was his service dog SeaSea.
Gerald is survived by his wife Virginia Lee Wingate; daughter Tammy Lee Rust (Mark); brother-in-law Jerald W. Howard (Maxine); daughter-in-law Kim Wingate; three grandchildren Justin Rust, Jaclyn Rust (David) and Kodi Wingate (Will); and great-grandsons Kolton and Andy Lee. Gerald is also survived by his cherished niece and nephews, including J.P. Howard, Jaime Howard and Joel Howard, as well as several cousins.
Services will be held Monday, Sept. 14, at Melson’s Funeral Home, 43 Thatcher St., Frankford, including visitation and viewing at 10 a.m., and a Masonic service starting at 11 a.m., followed by a funeral service. The committal service will be at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 26669 Patriots Way, Millsboro, at 1 p.m. A celebration of life will be held at a later date, due to COVID-19 restrictions. Due to COVID-19 restrictions face masks, and social distancing will be required.
Online condolences may be left by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com
