Harold Gerald Staub's Obituary
Harold Gerald “Jerry” Staub, 82, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2026, in Honolulu, Hawaii. Born on July 21, 1943, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Jerry lived a remarkable life defined by service, intellect, adventure, creativity, and devotion to family and friends.
Jerry was the beloved son of Katherine and Harold Staub and grew up in the Philadelphia area in a close-knit family that remained central to his life. He shared a lifelong bond with his siblings, whom he loved deeply. No matter where life and career took him, Jerry remained closely connected to his family, taking great pride in their lives, celebrating their accomplishments, and cherishing the laughter, stories, and enduring friendships they shared over the years.
He graduated from Springfield High School, Class of 1961, before earning his degree from Gettysburg College in 1965.
Following college, Jerry proudly served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War as a lieutenant and Douglas A-4 Skyhawk naval aviator assigned to the USS Shangri-La. His flight logs span from 1966 to 1971, years that reflected both his skill and deep love of flying — a passion that remained with him throughout his life.
After completing his military service, Jerry earned his law degree from the University of Florida College of Law and went on to a distinguished career in law, public service, and government affairs. During the 1970s and 1980s, he served as Counsel for the U.S. Senate Space Committee and Counsel for the U.S. House Subcommittee on Transportation and Aviation. He later worked in government affairs for General Dynamics, where he greatly valued the mentorship and friendship of colleague Moon Mullins. Jerry eventually became Executive Director of the National Association for the Superconducting Super Collider in Washington, D.C., before retiring in Honolulu.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jerry embraced life with curiosity, courage, and enthusiasm. He was an accomplished artist and writer who loved running and outrigger canoe paddling. A gifted pilot, he enjoyed flying his Pitts Special, and he found great joy sailing aboard his prized Vagabond 47 vessel, the Stardust. His adventurous spirit also carried him to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, one of many experiences he enthusiastically pursued throughout his life. He had a special affection for his pets — Oscar, Jocko, Jake, and Jeezer — faithful
companions who brought him comfort and companionship throughout the years.
Jerry is survived by his devoted wife of 19 years, Tamoi McKenna Staub, whose unwavering love and tireless care sustained him throughout his battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was predeceased by his first wife of 27 years, Karen Chun Staub of Honolulu, a U.S. congressional legislative assistant and technology executive, who passed away in 2003.
He is also survived by his treasured siblings: Carol Rishel (Rick), John Staub (Becky), Marybeth Croom (Jeff), and Katherine Corbett (Peter); and by his much-loved nieces and nephews, Christian, Pete, Katie, Chelsea, Kelly, and Austin, as well as great-nephews Lance, Asher, and Alonzo.
Jerry will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, sharp mind, creative soul, deep loyalty to those he loved, and enduring devotion to family. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched through family, military service, public service, mentorship, and friendship.
A private Celebration of Life will be held by the family.
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