Obit: Jerry McFetridge, long-term Capitol staff and labor expert

Jerry McFetridge, a veteran Capitol staffer and labor expert who left his mark on major Democratic legislation, died at his home over the weekend in Clarksburg. He was 72.

McFetridge, a former ranking official at the Building and Construction Trades Council, had tended a successful, 22-acre vineyard in Clarksburg, a town on the edge of the Delta south of Sacramento where he retired.

His wines included Chardonnay, which he bottled himself called “Everyday Chardonnay” – a favorite among Clarksburg residents.

Friends also said he also had an unusual request: He hoped to have his ashes shot out of a cannon over his vineyard.

McFetridge, a mountain bike and hiking enthusiast, had traveled to several countries to pursue trails. He reportedly planned a bicycle trip in Vietnam at the end of the month.

An ardent environmentalist, he also led efforts to restore the World War I-era  “Victory Trees” at Freeport south of Sacramento.

McFetridge is survived by his five children: Duncan, a lobbyist;  Milan, Britton, Matthew and Margaux; and three grand children — Jack, Finnigan and Britton.