Gerald “Jerry” H. Roth, August 23, 1928-July 17, 2021. His life was well lived, and he was so loved! The Lord called him home Saturday, July 17 in his 92nd year. This gentle, loving, caring and wonderful man has left a permanent mark etched on our hearts. He alongside his wife and best friend of 70 years, Dolores (Kozlowski), created a legacy of 10 children, 22 grandchildren, and 35 great-grandchildren. Family was the pivotal essence of his life. He was proud and honored to be the patriarch, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather to our large family.
One of five children, growing up on a farm he learned the value of hard work at a young age. He married Dolores on November 11, 1950, the same year he began to work at Consolidated Papers, Inc. from which he retired after 40 years of service. While working he created lifelong friendships with so many. He was a good friend to all and a man who would give his shirt for a friend.
Jerry enjoyed memorable deer camp traditions with his father, brother, sons, nephews, grandsons, great-grandchildren, and friends where he earned the nickname “Chief”. He was the ultimate prankster making spending time with him enjoyable to all. He provided the best childhood for his children taking them camping, fishing, and snowmobiling creating cherished memories. He and Dolores enjoyed playing cards, bowling, gambling, and traveling with many friends and family. Recently, he enjoyed watching the Packers, Brewers, and the Mollie B Polka Party. He was especially proud of the running total of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Whenever asked he would proudly recite the total and jokingly refer to all the girls as “Suzie”.
We are thankful he was sharp and witty until his very last day. A man who never cared much about himself and who even in his difficult final days would say to his loved ones when asked how he was doing, “I’m good”. Jerry was a strong, proud, and good man who kept his emotions in check. When asked if his life was what he expected, he said, “Yes, I had a good job and a nice big family.” Although our hearts are heavy, we will celebrate his life and find comfort that he is in heaven watching over us.
Jerry joins his loved ones in heaven as he was preceded in death by his parents Herman and Elizabeth (Taylor) Roth; brother, Robert Roth; two sisters, Yvonne Burchett, and Mae Hepokoski; a daughter, Donna Barnes, and a grandson, Adam Roth. He is survived by his twin sister, Joyce Mulgrew; nine of his children, Kathy (Lance) Skibba, Bonnie (Dan) Blenker, Debbie (Don) Tork, Gary Roth, David (Mary) Roth, Laurie (Jerry) Rosicky, Dan (Sandy) Roth, Jackie (Dean) Zirwas, Nancy (Tim) Mallek; 22 grandchildren, and 35 great-grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, July 22, 2021, at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, Milladore, with Rev. Dennis Stanchik officiating. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. The visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm on Wednesday at Martens / Rembs Funeral Home, Junction City and from 9:00 am until service time on Thursday at St. Wenceslaus Church. A rosary service will be held at 7:00 pm on Weds. at the funeral home.
Condolences may be sent online to www.rembsfh.com
Author: News Desk
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