Jerome "Jerry" Cherek, 78, of Ringle, passed away at Aspirus Wausau Hospital on November 30, 2022. He was born on October 21,1944 in Milwaukee to the late Florian "Dewey" and Theresa (Gruna) Cherek. He married Diane Schuttenberg, his one-and-only, on May 23,1964 and together they had five children.

Jerry made a 50-year career in automotive repair during which he developed a reputation for meticulousness, fairness, honesty, and integrity. A hard worker who enjoyed learning, he started on "the line" and eventually worked his way up to shop manager. He was always active, picking up many skills and hobbies and learning how things were done. Knowing the value of a dollar, he would put his technical skills to use to do just about whatever needed to be done, including building the family house and the family cottage "up north." He put his managerial skills to use assigning work to others. You knew something was coming when you heard, "I'll have you…," regardless of what you were actually doing. It was always followed by an encouraging and lighthearted, "it should only take 10 minutes." He always shared his knowledge with others, even if you didn't ask (according to his kids). He enjoyed passing on his knowledge to his grandkids, whether it was skiing, fishing, or welding. He always had countless projects underway or planned, many of which he eventually finished. Sometimes he was delayed by his own family who needed cars repaired (occasionally unexpectedly), houses re-roofed, or flooring installed. Knowing that you need the 'right tool for the job', he was always watching for an opportunity to acquire tools through the years which he was always ready to use. If his wife had thoughts such as, "another one???," she didn't say anything. If he had the tools and the time, he was always ready to help and wouldn't hear of hiring out a job.

Jerry knew how to relax and especially enjoyed gardening, deer hunting, fishing, making wine, attending Applefest every year, being the pontoon boat captain for the family boat rides, and downhill skiing. He was looking forward to the day when he could finally ski for free at Granite Peak, but regrettably missed that date by two years. We thought to use his season pass ourselves, but no one can pass for him due to his hair, which was famously "thicker than ever." He enjoyed socializing, especially with his extended family. Jerry enjoyed spending his time grilling for his family (venison loin!), experimenting with the air fryer, and making his family mojitos, old fashioneds, and his legendary "grapey" wine. He didn't make beer, as he figured Leines had that covered. Finally, Jerry and Diane loved listening to polkas together and although rumor has it, "in heaven there is no beer," that can't be true because Jerry would never have gone. Na Zdrowie!

Jerry survived CLL for over 15 years but battled and lost an agonizing seven-week war with COVID, despite being fully vaccinated and boosted. He fought for hope and for life right up until his last breaths and is very sorely missed. He was ours to cherish, but never to keep. He was, and will forever be, our hero.

Jerry is survived by Diane, his wife of 58 years; their children Kevin (Becky) Cherek, Keith (Cheryl) Cherek, Erin (John) Kennedy, Jamie Cherek, and JeriAnn (Chris) Cherek; and grandchildren Aidan and Danielle Cherek. He is further survived by his siblings Ronald (Leona) Cherek, Ruth (Ervin) Schuttenberg, Ralph (Dianne) Cherek, Kathy (Leo) Omernik, Patrick (Cheryl) Cherek, and Lori (Chris) Buchkowski.

Jerry also left behind his best buddy, little shadow, and only lap cat, LiLee. Not known as an animal person, Lils took to Jerry for reasons only known to her, as she was originally meant to be Diane's cat. She would almost always come at the sound of his voice. He had a very special way of carrying her on his arm, so she was perched and on the lookout with her favorite human. If word spread that she killed a mouse, Jerry would insist the mouse was teasing HER! In Jerry's eyes, LiLee was always the innocent one.

There will not be a memorial visitation, as the family wishes to avoid any further illness or loss of life as a result of COVID.

In lieu of flowers and memorials, the family requests that people perform an act of kindness to someone in need.

The family would like to thank Dr. Hamied Rezazadeh, Dr. Christopher Peterson, and the staff at Aspirus Cancer Care for all of the medical care they gave him through the years, as well as Dr. Kartik Rajagopalan, Dr. Benjamin Kaster and all other physicians and nurses who assisted him during his time at Aspirus Hospital.

Mid Wisconsin Cremation Society is assisting family at this time.  Online condolences may be expressed at MWCS.WS