Gerald Wai Yee Kam

Gerald Wai Yee Kam, aged 94, passed away on October 25, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. Born on September 14, 1930, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Gerald dedicated his life to his family and his community, embodying the true spirit of a family man.

Gerald graduated from St. Louis High School in Honolulu before furthering his education at the University of Hawaii. He proudly served in the US Navy and the Naval reserves, where he embraced the rigor and camaraderie of military life, contributing significantly to his unit. He retired at the rank of Lieutenant Commander.

Professionally, Gerald was a longtime urban planner with the Los Angeles County Urban Planning Commission. His work helped shape vital infrastructure development in LA County, ensuring thoughtful growth that benefited residents and future generations.

A man of faith, Gerald was a long-time parishioner of St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Lomita. His beliefs guided him throughout his life, providing strength and comfort. He cherished his friendships with Catholic couples he and his wife met through the Christian Family Movement (CFM), maintaining those friendships well into his 90s.

In his leisure, Gerald was an avid reader and keenly followed current events and politics, which kept him informed and engaged with the world around him. He was a lifelong learner, always eager to learn new things and continued his education at community colleges for much of his life.

Gerald is survived by his children, Jackie Kam-Blackard and son-in-law Bill Blackard, Geri Kam and son-in-law Brian Nichols, Michael Kam and daughter-in-law Cheryl Kam, and Patrick Kam; as well as his granddaughters Alexandra Nichols, Sophia Nichols, and Andrea Blackard. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dorothy Ng Kam, son Jonathan David Kam, and two brothers, Galen Kam and Grover Kam.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Lomita, celebrating his life and legacy. Interment will be at Holy Cross Cemetery. Gerald will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his service to his country, and his contributions to the community.