Jerome "Shorty" Zylka

Jerome "Shorty" Zylka, 77, of Oak Creek, WI, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 20, 2025, after a long battle with severe COPD. Born on April 11, 1947, in Milwaukee, WI, to the late Ervin and Dolores Zylka. Shorty lived a full and vibrant life that touched many. 

Shorty’s love story began at a Valentine’s party in 1968, where he met Susan (nee Regner), the young woman who would become the love of his life. They married 17 months later and were happily married for 55 years, building a beautiful family together. Shorty was a loyal and dedicated employee at PPG Industries, where he worked in various roles for many years, showing commitment and a strong work ethic. 

Outside of work, Shorty was a man who valued time spent with loved ones. He cherished every moment with family and friends, whether enjoying drinks, playing cards and cribbage with the late Jim and Pat Burnham, boating with Greg and Carol Bielski, or going on vacations with his dear friends Joe and Donna Botson and Gary and Sue Bjornstad. His greatest passions included coin collecting and boating, and despite the frequent breakdowns of his boats, they became symbols of Shorty’s adventurous spirit and deep love for the water. In addition to these hobbies, Shorty was also a dedicated blood donor, generously giving to those in need throughout his life. 

Shorty leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and countless cherished memories. He will be profoundly missed by his beloved wife, Sue, his children, family, neighbors, and many lifelong friends.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported Shorty over the years especially during his final days, with special thanks to neighbors Linda, Jan, and Bobby for their unwavering care and kindness. 

Shorty was the loving father of the late Lynn Plevak (Tim), Stacy Zylka, and Shannon Keating (Mike); and the proud grandpa of TJ Plevak, Fred Keating, and Jennifer Plevak. He was the beloved brother of Gerald (Jean), Barbara Theis, the late Ralph Zylka, and Cynthia Simko; and brother-in-law of the late Jim (Kristi) Regner, Linda (Kevin) Clemmer, Kathy Regner, Patty (Jon) Lashua, and the late Michael Regner. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Friday, February 28, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2507 5th Ave, South Milwaukee, WI, with the service to follow. 

Burial will be held on Monday, March 3rd at 2:30 pm at Forest Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Trinity Lutheran Church where he was a member for the past 30 years.