Gerald "Jerry" Griese

1938 - 2022

Griese, Gerald (Jerry)

MADISON - Gerald (Jerry) Griese, age 83, died on Jan. 16, 2022.

Jerry was born March 26, 1938 in Plymouth, Wis., the descendent of two Mayors of Plymouth.

The son of Alvin and Gladys (Eigenberger) Griese who preceded him in death the brother of Jim Griese and Jayne Bodell.

Jerry was a Navy veteran and proud Union carpenter who worked for the UW Madison Service building and later as the carpenter for the Chemistry Building. He was part of the crew that boarded up windows during the war at home years, including the memorable Sterling Hall bombing on campus in 1974.

As the Apprenticeship Coordinator for Southern Wisconsin, he had an office at the Labor Temple on S. Park Street, not far from the home he and his wife, Vicki, raised five children who survive him, Terri (Paul) Ohmen, Michelle (Don) Heitzinger, Joe (Mary Coaty), Chris (Pam Kendler) and Cindy (Sergio Meza). He was also the grandfather to Matt (Casey Nehmer) Ohmen, Christina Ohmen and Rebecca Ohmen, Zoe Heitzinger, Sam Griese, Henry Griese and Franklin Griese, Sergio Meza Jr. and Sofia Meza. Two great-grandchildren, Brooks Ohmen and Brody Ohmen. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Victoria (Bierd) Griese in 1992.

Jerry enjoyed fishing, promoting the importance of the Trades and following Democratic politics, rarely missing an episode of the Rachel Maddow show. He supported Wounded Warriors Project and the native tribes of Wisconsin (Ho Chunk will especially miss his patronage!)

The family would like to express sincere appreciation for the care he received at the William S. Middleton Veterans Hospital in Madison and Senator Tammy Baldwin's Veterans Affairs office, Debbie Buchanan, for their care and services.

Due to rising Covid 19 pandemic numbers, we will host a celebration of life later this summer and post it on our Facebook pages.

Donations in Jerry's memory may be made to the Urban League of Greater Madison- Trades Training, or any reputable veteran's aid organizations.