Jerry Yazback is a man of principle. His beloved parents instilled in him what became his life philosophy – to treat others with respect and as you would like to be treated. A people person, Jerry is a great listener and conversationalist, who has quickly become an integral member of the Westwood Commons family.

Born and raised in Rochester, New York with his older brother Tony, Jerry grew up appreciating his close-knit neighborhood in the 10th Ward near Edgerton Park where he loved the playground, softball and baseball, eventually becoming an umpire for youth and adult leagues. A lifelong reader and fan of legal thrillers, he spent much time in the local library, eventually getting his first job as a page at the Edgerton Branch Library where he was able to enjoy a sense of community and exchange stories with fellow bibliophiles.

He graduated from St. John Fisher College with a Bachelor’s degree in History and from SUNY Geneseo with a Master’s degree in Library and Information Science and was soon drafted into the United States Army where he received several promotions and achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant ultimately working in the Quartermaster School Library in Virginia. After two years of service, Jerry returned to his hometown and went on to a thirty-year career as a librarian working in several branches of the Rochester Public Library System ultimately becoming head librarian at the Maplewood Community Library.

Following retirement, Jerry worked for many years in the clubhouse at his townhome community where he also maintained a lending library. He made the move to Westwood Commons just over a year ago, after two-story living, home ownership and all its responsibilities got to be too much. There he could remain close to his three adored children, Kimberly, Michael and Alisaar, and their families including grandsons, Antonio and Giovanni, whose soccer games he faithfully attends. He recalls days at the family camp in the Bristol Hills and many family dinners which he still enjoys.

“I am so very proud of all of them,” he said. “They are such good people and hard workers. We are very close and I could not ask for more.”

His family helped with the transition to life at Westwood Commons with their visits and support. Jerry eased into getting involved in activities beginning with Wii Bowling, which he now loves. Jerry has made many friends and also participates in arm archery, bocce, shuffleboard and a variety of card and dice games, where he’s become quite the competitive player. He’s even got a favorite meal, looking forward to the Friday fish selection, whether it be cod, halibut or salmon, paired with rice pilaf.

He enjoys his scenic room overlooking the courtyard and the cheery “sunlight lounge” as he calls it, where he reads and watches deer and other wildlife. He’s also become the resident librarian for the Westwood Commons library where he keeps the collection organized and helps his fellow residents with selections. Jerry’s love of literature has also led him to share poetry, read over the PA system in celebration of National Poetry Month, to the delight of residents and staff.

“The staff and residents are marvelous. We have great conversations and I’ve really found my niche. I have the best of all things at my disposal,” said Jerry. “I really count my blessings.”