Major Jerry Joseph Day

Major Jerry Joseph Day (retired), 76, passed away at Primrose Retirement Community on Friday, September 1, 2017. Born in Osage, IA, he grew up in Union Grove, WI where he lived until joining the U.S. Army in 1958. He had an exciting and rewarding 21 year military career. Jerry’s service included 3 tours in Europe, 2 tours in Korea, 1 tour in Vietnam, and various stateside locations including Ford Hood, Texas; Fort Lee, Virginia; Fort Louis, Washington; Fort Carson, Colorado; Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Upon military retirement, he served another 17 years in Federal Civil Service with the Defense Logistics Agency.

Following years of relocation, he and his wife Jean settled in Pace, Florida where they enjoyed their beautiful home for 26 years. Jerry was a dog lover and always had a faithful four-legged companion at his side. Some of his favorite hobbies included fishing, woodworking, coin collecting, reading, and making “to do” lists which he always completed. Jerry was a lifelong Green Bay Packer and Wisconsin Badger fan. He always took great pride in his vehicles, ranging from old pickup trucks to Cadillac’s. For many years he collected his favorite quotes and sayings which are now being enjoyed by his family. Jerry returned to Wisconsin a little over a year ago to be near his family, and this time with him has been a gift that will be treasured. They have enjoyed his great stories, quick wit, words of wisdom and Saturday night poker games at his place. Jerry will be dearly missed by his family and the many friends he has made worldwide.

Jerry is survived by his sister, Diana Jacobsen of Union Grove, and nieces and their families of both his sister and brother. He was preceeded in death by his wife Jean, his parents Harlan and Marie (Recker), his brother James, and his brother-in-law Edward Jacobsen.

The military service honoring Jerry will be held at the Heritage Funeral home (Johnson-Reiss) at 9200 S. 27th St., Oak Creek, on Thursday, September 7. Visitation will be from 5:00-6:00pm. Reverend Gina Bryan of Pace, Florida will lead the service at 6pm. Jerry’s family wishes to thank the dedicated staff of Primrose Retirement Community and Hospice Alliance. Special thanks to Jessica, Cathy and Pastor Charlie for their loving care.