Jerome "Jerry" Zillges

Jerome (Jerry) J. Zillges peacefully went home to Jesus on February 11, 2023.
He was born October 21, 1950, to Russell and Gertrude Zillges. Jerry was an avid collector, entrepreneur, mechanic, meat-cutter, hunter, sausage maker, business owner, and chef. He was strong-willed and accomplished anything he set his mind to. He was passionate in "his shop", painting and repairing vehicles and tuning small engines. He often demonstrated his artistic ability through building and painting intricate models that replicated the vintage cars and trucks that he loved. He also had a fascination with repairing and tinkering with old clocks. Everything in his shop was his gold-mine; fueling his desire and passion to create and fix things for others.
Jerry loved entertaining with his witty humor, wild stories, and delicious cooking. If he could awe you into disbelief or have you belly laughing at his antics, he was happy. His "famous" BBQ ribs with perfectly seasoned twice baked potatoes will never be forgotten.
Jerry married his beloved wife, Joan, on March 31, 2001, the beginning of a new endeavor of learning country living. His final years were his ultimate joy, when he could spend his time doting on, teasing and getting a rise out of the youngest of his grandkids, Charlotte, Aubrey, Liam and Brynn.
Jerry is survived by his beloved wife, Joan; stepchildren, Cole (Brooke) Van Dreel, Shurie (Adam) Raisanen; his son, Craig (Jan) Zillges; daughter, Lisa Zillges; his sister; Ruth (Mike) Dollevoet; 11 grandchildren; Kaitlyn, Erica, Abigail, Cody, Devin, Brennan, Malorie, Charlotte, Aubrey, Liam and Brynn, 1 great grandchild; Thea, nieces, nephews, and his faithful dog, Wookie.
He was preceded in death by his parents; Russell and Gertrude Zillges; his son, Terrence Zillges; his brother and sister-in-law, Buck and Gayle Zillges; and his nephew, Chad Dollevoet.
Jerry's passing leaves an empty place in the hearts of all who loved him, but we can rejoice that his love and faith has led him eternally home with Jesus.
Celebration of Jerry's life will be held Saturday, February 25, 2023, at 11:00 AM at Spring Lake Church, 2240 Klondike Road, Green Bay, WI 54311, Pastor Jack Guerra officiating. Visitation, prior to service, 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM.
A special thank you to his dedicated caregivers over these past months, Ruth, Shurie, Gwen, Stephanie and Jorge. Your compassion and friendship meant the world to him.