Jerry Cesak (jeff and Jer)San Diego,CA Death,Obituary:Beloved San Diego Radio Icon Jerry Cesak Passes at 75
Jerry Cesak, the beloved San Diego radio icon known to millions as “Jer” from the legendary Jeff & Jer Showgram, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2026, surrounded by family. He was 75.
Born in 1951, Jerry’s theater background fueled a magnetic broadcasting career that spanned decades. After meeting partner Jeff Detrow in Detroit, their dynamic morning show arrived in San Diego in 1988, becoming the most popular program in the city’s history. For 27 years, “The Showgram” was a daily institution, blending hilarious bits with profound community heart. Landmark events like the post-9/11 “Human American Flag” and the “Jingle Ball” concerts defined their legacy of connection. The duo was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 2016.
Beyond the microphone, Jerry was a fierce advocate for animal welfare. He served on multiple humane society boards and, with his wife Pam, founded the Unicorn Foundation. His advocacy helped pass critical animal welfare legislation, and his final major contribution was establishing Charlotte’s Medical Center, a state-of-the-art veterinary facility at the Rancho Coastal Humane Society.
A creative force, Jerry also authored the children’s book *My Personal Panther* and wrote and directed the play *Nickels & Dimes*.
He is survived by his wife, Pam, and their animal companions. In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to the Rancho Coastal Humane Society. Jerry Cesak’s chapter may have closed, but his legacy of laughter, empathy, and compassion resonates forever.
