Gerald “Jerry” Nikolay, 84, of Rozellville, WI, passed away on April 16, 2023. Jerry was born to Frank and Helen (Wyman) Nikolay, on September 13, 1938, at the family home on Smokey Hill Road in the Town of Green Valley. He was born the fifth of eight children. Jerry knew a childhood of hard work on the family dairy farm, as well as the cool relief of swimming in the pond after a hard day’s work. He enjoyed showing crops and cattle with 4-H and related trips to the state fair. In his teen years, Jerry also trained in boxing with Flossy Gust and competed in the Golden Gloves circuit alongside childhood friends. Friends and family may recall Jerry by his nickname, Stiffy.
Jerry began full time work on the family farm at age 16. He worked tireless hours, between the field, farm and forest. His evening work as a bartender and Constable for the Town of Day (1965-1973), serving at Fahey’s Ballroom and the local racetrack, allowed him connection time with friends. Jerry eventually purchased the original family farm and later established Nikolay Farms in 1968. He began logging with a rented horse in 1965 and later founded his trucking business, Nikolay Trucking, in 1973. Jerry married his wife, Valerie (Carolfi), on May 5, 1973.
With the help of God, Jerry and Valerie were honored to expand the family’s farm throughout the years, as retiring farmers entrusted them in the care of the land. He held great respect and care for his hired men, as he worked alongside them throughout his decades of farming and logging. He was proud to pass on his knowledge and passion for farming to his two sons, who carry on his work today. Jerry was known to only rest for his annual travels and, later in life, afternoon naps in the sun.
Jerry is survived by his wife Valerie and four children, Holly (Jeff) Weyer, Jennifer (Ben) Nemec, Shannon (Charity) Nikolay, and Aaron Nikolay. He is also survived by his nine beloved grandchildren. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Helen and siblings, JR, Pat and Jean.
Aside from his love for his family, the land and his travels, Jerry was passionate about helping others and giving back. Whether helping another farmer with equipment or advice, with a warm smile and a friendly hello, Jerry was the definition of a true friend and good neighbor. He will be remembered for his subtle and quick wit, and his kind, humble and steadfast demeanor. Always an anonymous financial donor to many causes, Jerry positively impacted our community, and he will be truly missed.
Jerry’s family will host a funeral service on Wednesday, April 19, 2023, at 11:30 am at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Rozellville. Visitation will be held from 9:00 – 11:30 am. Dinner to follow at the church hall. In honor of their friendship and years of working together, pallbearers will be Tom Singstock, Saul Rojas, Francisco Balderas and Carlos Sarmiento. Rembs Funeral Home is assisting the family.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Rozellville Rockets 4-H Club or Heifer International in Jerry’s name.
Condolences may be sent online at www.rembsfh.com
Author: News Desk
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