Gerald passed away unexpectedly at his home in New Braunfels, Texas.  He was born in San Antonio, Texas on March 7, 1949, the youngest of six siblings born to Herman and Ebro Bartlett.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Herman (Ella Mae), Damon (Jolene), and Kenny, as well as his sisters, Gayle Zettner and Patsy Gordon and niece Krista Bartlett.

He is survived by sisters-in-law Jolene Bartlett and Ella Mae Bartlett, as well as numerous nieces Regina, Kimberly, Rani, Hayley, Karen, Debra, Kelly, Beatrice, April, Nancy and Dawn and nephews Gary, Wayne, Dusty, Eddie, Kenny, Kevin and Karl.

Gerald grew up on San Antonio's south side and attended Harlandale High School.  Upon graduation he went to work for SWB/ATT. After his retirement he worked for several other telecommunications companies.  While working for SWB he played drums at night in a western band that toured south Texas for several years as well as substituting for Adolph Hofner's drummer in his absence.

Gerald had many interests, not the least of which was flying his Beechcraft Sundowner, which gave him a feeling of peace and independence. Now his spirit can soar peacefully through the realm that he so loved.

He also had an avid interest in anything automotive, having collected or built motorcycles, street rods, classic cars, muscle cars and show cars.  The latter launched him, along with his ex-wife Linda, on an extended stint of producing rod and custom car shows in south and central Texas under the name Sundown Promotions.  Most notable was the Austin Rod & Custom Car show which was an annual event for 35 years. He was a former Producer member of the International Car Show Association, as well as a close friend to Darryl Starbird, an early innovator of show cars.  He was a charter member of the Gear Grinder Car Club and the Lone Star Street Rod Association.

Along the way, he mentored and encouraged many young people in their pursuit of success in their chosen field, even helping some financially. It can be said that Gerald was generous to a fault.

Due to the current pandemic and other considerations, it has been decided that internment will be restricted to only remaining family members.  Plans are being made to hold a celebration of his life on his birthday, March 7, 2021.

In lieu of flowers, it is suggested that you donate to your charity of choice, your church, or a school in order to continue his legacy of generosity to others.