Jerome Paul (Jerry) Fossenier was born in Radville, Saskatchewan, Canada, June 8, 1935, to Maurice and Alice Fossenier. Educated through high school and joined the Royal Canadian Army Reserves in Radville; then earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering in 1959 from the University of Denver, in Denver, Colorado. He died in Rio Rancho, New Mexico on February 15, 2026.

Jerry married his love, Lorna (Leier) Fossenier on September 1, 1958. Besides Lorna, he is also survived by his sons, Patrick (wife Bonnie and daughter Nora), of San Carlos, California, and Michael, of Littleton, Colorado. He was predeceased by his son, Thomas (daughters Nicole and Christine), and his brother, Germaine.

Jerry was a licensed professional engineer in New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona, and Nevada. As City Engineer of Grand Junction, Colorado (1960-1965) he earned national attention for his role in the design and construction of the redevelopment of the Main Street area. He was later an executive for Grand Junction Pipe & Supply, CBW Builders, and Summit Engineering.

Jerry and Lorna became naturalized United States citizens in 1964, and were very active in local community activities, assuming many key leadership roles.

In 1986, Jerry and Lorna moved from Grand Junction to Rio Rancho, New Mexico, where he became an executive for Carder Concrete Products Co., Cinfran Engineering, and Huitt Zollars Co. He was also Public Works Director and City Engineer of the City of Rio Rancho, NM for 9 ½ years. He retired in 2005.

His body was cremated, and funeral services will be held at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, Rio Rancho, NM, 1502 Sara Rd. SE, Rio Rancho, beginning with recitation of the Rosary at 12:30 pm on Friday, February 27, followed by Celebration of Mass 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Presbyterian Hospice.