Gerald Richard "Jerry" Lasko

1947 - 2024

Gerald "Jerry" Richard Lasko, age 77, of Warsaw, IN, passed away peacefully at home with his wife and son at his side early in the morning on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024. Born to George Richard and Mary Elizabeth (née Turza) Lasko in Lakewood, OH on July 22, 1947, Jerry led a life filled with dedication, love, and unwavering faith.
Jerry graduated from Westlake High School in Westlake, OH in 1965 and pursued higher education at St. Joseph's College in Rensselaer, IN, where he lettered in football as an offensive guard-tackle and defensive end earning a degree in Physical Education and Health in 1970. His commitment to learning didn't stop there; he achieved two master's degrees – one in Physical Education from Indiana State University in 1973 and another in School Administration from Indiana University in 1995.
On July 22, 1978, Jerry married the love of his life, Valerie Jean Erickson, at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Rensselaer, IN. Their 46 years together were marked by deep love, unwavering partnership, and a shared devotion to family and friends. Jerry's life was guided by his profound Catholic faith, which was the cornerstone of his character. He allowed his faith to lead his actions and was a devoted servant, exemplified by his role as Deputy Grand Knight for the Knights of Columbus at St. Mary of the Lake Parish in Culver.
Jerry's career was defined by his passion for football, education, and excellence. As a college football coach, he served various roles including special teams and defensive coordinator at St. Joseph's College, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Manchester University, Indiana State University, the University of Akron – where his son was born – Kent State University, and Missouri S&T (formerly the University of Missouri – Rolla). His longest tenure was at the Culver Academies, where he transitioned to alumni and development work, building deep and meaningful lifelong relationships. Throughout his life, Jerry exemplified integrity, always ensuring that everything he did was done right the first time. He and Valerie lived in Culver, IN, from 2002 to 2022 before moving to Warsaw to be closer to their beloved granddaughter, Emma.
Jerry's strong sense of duty extended beyond work and community; he was a dedicated and loving husband, father, and grandfather. He prioritized taking care of his family, ensuring their well-being and that every detail was attended to with care. His family knew him as a man who found joy in the simplest moments – whether spending time at the beach, particularly at Lake Maxinkuckee in Culver, Vermilion, OH, or Siesta Key, FL, or enjoying a football game on a Saturday afternoon. His love for college football was legendary, as was his commitment to sharing that passion with others.
Jerry's legacy of kindness, faith, and commitment lives on through his wife, Valerie; their son, Colin Eric (Kaitlyn née Keelin); and granddaughter, Emma Katherine, all of Warsaw, IN. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Dorothy Lasko of North Canton, OH, Christine and Don DeLuke of Niskayuna, NY, Karen and Mike Tiede of Versailles, OH, and Kim and Robby White of Rensselaer, IN, along with many cherished nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and his lifelong brother and friend, Robert Lasko.
Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. on Friday, November 22 at Titus Funeral Home, 200 Sheridan St, Warsaw, IN 46580. Additional visitation will begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 23 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 125 N Harrison St, Warsaw, IN 46580, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. Reception to follow immediately after Mass.
Interment will take place at Culver Masonic Cemetery, Culver, IN, near one of his favorite places, Lake Maxinkuckee.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Jerry's memory.
Jerry's life was a testament to the power of faith, love, and service. He was a man of principle who took pride in his work and in caring for those he loved. His memory will continue to inspire all who knew him.