Gerald "Jerry" Burger

Gerald A. Burger Jerry One life lived, many lives touched. Gerald A. Burger was born on December 14, 1943 to Henry and Eleanore (nee Gaouette) Burger. Growing up in St. Francis, he attended St. Pauls grade school, where he was an altar boy and a Boy Scout. Living with his parents, 2 sisters Donna and MaryEllen, and 2 brothers Allen and Thomas, there was never a dull moment in their home. He took piano and guitar lessons which were the catalyst of his lifelong love of music and entertainment. In addition, Jerrys late brother-in-law, Woody, invoked a profound and lasting love of hunting, fishing, and the great outdoors. Jerry graduated from Bay View High School. Upon completing high school, Jerry bought a music school and began providing guitar and piano lessons to eager pupils. To supplement his income, and satisfy his desire to play music, Jerry and some buddies started a band called The Invictas, playing at local venues on a weekly basis, or whenever they could get a gig. With his strikingly good looks and his charming personality, its no wonder Arlene became smitten with him in no time! Their love story began in 1963 when Jerry and the band stopped in to Marcs Big Boy, where Arlene was working as a waitress. A few more visits to Big Boy, a little flirtatious grinning and conversation, and an invitation to come watch the band, was the start of a successful courtship. Three years later, on May 21st 1966, a beautiful wedding took place; a sacred marriage bond was made that lasted for 52 years: until death do us part. Jerry enlisted in the Army National Guard in 1965 where he served for 6 years. During that period, he served an active duty position when race riots broke out in the streets of Milwaukee. During this time period, he also began working in management at a loan company. In 1967, Jerry and Arlene began their family. Their 1st born, Paul, made his debut on June 3. The pride and joy he felt; a son! Jerry would have a descendant in which to mentor all his knowledge of hunting, fishing, camping, and all that nature had to offer. Paul did not disappoint. He followed right in Jerrys footsteps, developing a profound love and respect for the great outdoors. Together, they spent many occasions fishing in the Boundary Waters and Lake Michigan, hunting in fields, marshes, and on his land in Hixton, WI, camping in the North Woods, and numerous other outdoor activities. Within 2 years, Jerry left the loan company to venture into the insurance business, where he became the top salesman for Mutual Service Insurance. It wasnt long after, when Jerry, along with 2 other ambitious colleagues, embarked on building and growing a successful insurance business they could call their own; Best Insurance Services. With hard work, dedication, and a keen business sense, the business thrived until his retirement in 2015. On June 4, 1972, Jerry and Arlene once again expanded their family. To their delight, they welcomed a baby girl into their life, Jacqueline. Along with a new baby girl, came a father who would move heaven and earth for her. Truly the apple of his eye, and likewise, Jerry was blessed to have a daughter whos love and admiration for him was as innumerable as the stars. The unwavering bond between the two was more special than there are words to describe. Now, with both a boy and a girl, their family felt complete. Throughout Jerrys married life, he and his family resided in Greenfield, WI where he took an active, leadership role in various community venues including the Jaycees, Little League Baseball, and Boy Scouts. He was a respected member and Boardmember of the 1400 Fishing and Hunting Club of South Milwaukee. He founded and operated the Hunter Education Program in West Allis, and was a proud member and supporter of the AmVets. He had many other hobbies, talents, and interests including being a fishing charter captain, butchering and smoking meats, traveling, jewelry making, gardening, and was a handyman. Jerry was a loyal and devoted husband and family man. As a father, he was patient, compassionate, generous and always wanting to share his wisdom. His genuine ability to love and forgive was unconditional. A hero in the eyes of many. A man of strong character, high morals, and resolve. Jerry was also a man of strong faith. His Catholic foundation was always a source of strength and guidance for him. Praying to Jesus was a common way to work through any curve balls life would throw his way. In addition, Jerry instilled the importance of God and Catholic traditions into his children. He was a role model for doing his best, living his life as Jesus asks us to. He and Arlene made sacrifices so that both their children could attend Catholic elementary and high school. Between the years 2001-2006, Jerry became an extremely proud Grandpa to 4 beautiful grandchildren; Benjamin, Amanda, Matthew, and Gabriella. What was better than having 2 beautiful children? ...having 4 amazing grandchildren! In Jerrys eyes, life didnt get better than that. He felt truly blessed, and treasured every moment he was able to spend with those kids. They were the wind beneath his wings. Gramps was equally adored by and had a close, special bond with each one of them as well. In 2013, it was with great sorrow and frustration that we learned Jerry had been diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia; a rapidly aggressive form of dementia of which we would later learn its cruel, debilitating effects. The disease ravaged Jerrys ability to be independent and robbed him of his dignity, yet he was determined to be as independent as possible, for as long as possible. Unfortunately, the demise was so great that he eventually needed 24 hour/7 days a week care, and was moved to Clifden Court Assisted Living on January 31. While there were many caregivers that provided exceptional care, and the facility itself was a very home-like environment, he hated being anywhere other than in his own home with his loving wife and faithful dog, Ginger. The progression of his disease was rampant and his fate inevitable. With the fastidious care of a hospice team, the Clifden Court staff, and his adoring family, Jerry passed away very peacefully on Sunday, April 8, 2018. During his last breaths, he was surrounded by his loving and adoring family. Jerry Burger, you loved and have been loved by so many. You have set the bar high for those who attempt to walk in your footsteps. You will be missed and remembered in countless ways. The imprint youve left in our hearts is indelible. Rest in the peace and tranquility of Gods Kingdom; Paradise. ...until we meet again! XOXO Jerry passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on April 8, 2018 at the age of 74. Beloved husband of Arlene (Nee Kroll) for 52 years. Loving father of Paul (Linda) and Jacqueline (Peter) Marz. Proud grandpa of Benjamin, Amanda, Matthew and Gabriella. Dear brother of Donna, Allen, MaryEllen (Russ), and Tom (Debbie). Brother-in-law of the late Bob (Dolly). Further survived by loving nieces, nephews, relatives, friends, and his faithful dog Ginger. Visitation will be held at Max A. Sass & Sons-Greenridge Chapel on Thursday, April 12 from 4-8PM with a Vigil Service at 7PM. Additional visitation to be held at ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST CATHOLIC CHURCH (8500 W. Coldspring Rd., Greenfield) on Friday, April 13 from 10-10:45AM. Funeral Mass to follow at 11AM.