Gerald Alan Wieland passed away peacefully on July 9, 2026, at the age of 78.

Born January 10th, 1948, in Paradise, California, Gerry was a tried-and-true Californian who loved his state. He was a corporal in the U.S. Marines and served his time in the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1969. Upon returning to the U.S., Gerry earned his Bachelor of Arts in Business from the University of California, Berkeley, a foundation that would guide his successful career as a commodities broker. After moving to Laguna Beach in 1986, Gerry’s passion for marine life and the coast led him to volunteer at the local tidepools and the Ocean Institute of Dana Point as a living history instructor, helping to bring the past of the Pilgrim and maritime life alive for many, inspiring curiosity and respect for tradition.

Gerry discovered a love for sailing in the 1970s which became a lifelong hobby throughout the remainder of his life. Notably, he successfully completed the Trans Pac in 1983, sailing from San Pedro, California, to Oahu, Hawaii, during the course of six days.

He is survived by his ex-wife and caregiver, Susan Hall, and his loving children, Ginny, Elizabeth and Adam, who carry forth his spirit of perseverance, laughter and warmth. He was a proud grandfather to Jack, Griffin, Theo, and Roman.

Gerald Alan Wieland leaves behind a legacy of impressive facial hair, love and strength. He touched the lives of many and will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, his family requests any gestures of love be made in the form of a donation to the Alzheimer’s Family Center of Huntington Beach.