Jerry Eichholz

Jerome Joseph Eichholz, better known as "Jerry," passed away on Tuesday November 12, 2024, at Capital Region Medical Center in Jefferson City, MO, at the age of 82. 

Born on January 25, 1942, in Westphalia, Missouri, Jerry was the son of the late Clem and Bernadine Scheppers Eichholz. He grew up in a loving family and was deeply connected to his community. 

On May 22, 1965, Jerry married the love of his life, Shirley Backes, at Our Lady Help of Christians Catholic Church in Frankenstein, MO. Together, they shared a lifetime of love, raising a family and building lasting memories. Shirley preceded him in death on December 16, 2020.

Jerry was a devout member of the St. Louis of France Catholic Church in Bonnots Mill, where he served as a sacristan for many years. He was also a proud honorary lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus, serving for 35 years, and was an active participant in numerous church and community events. 

Professionally, Jerry began his career in the workforce at Mari-Osa Delta and Tweedies Shoes Factory before joining Charles E. Still/Capital Region Medical Center. Jerry worked for 40 years as a Certified Surgical Technician, with notable leadership as Director of Endoscopy for 13 years. After a health scare in 1993, following his first myocardial infarction, Jerry continued to work as a Gastro Technician until his retirement in 2004. He was also involved in the local surgical tech chapter, serving on various committees throughout his career. 

Beyond his professional achievements, Jerry was deeply involved in his local community. He served as past president of the Bonnots Mill Community Betterment Association and was passionate about volunteering and supporting local causes. 

In his personal life, Jerry enjoyed a wide range of hobbies, including gardening, quilting, home decorating, and traveling, particularly his cherished annual trips to Texas. 

Jerry is survived by two sons DeWayne (Cindy) Eichholz and Greg (Cheryl) Eichholz; nine grandchildren; Brandon (Houston) Ousley, Tyler (Billy) Granneman, Samantha (Cory) Stegeman, Shaley Eichholz, Dolyn Eichholz, and Skiley Eichholz; Kaylen Haase, Abigale Haase, Coleman Haase and seven great-grandchildren; Murphy and Ellis Ousley, Payton and Palmer Stegeman, Brynleigh and Octavia Whittle and Liam Franco. Brothers Eddie (Vernie) Eichholz and Norman (Alice) Eichholz, two honorary brothers, Dan Beatty and Kevin Temeyer, one sister Joanne (Ron) Mertz. Sister-in-laws Helen (Tom) Veltrop, Mary Eichholz, preceded in death by brothers Stanley Eichholz, Charlie Eichholz, Bobby Eichholz, and Ronnie Eichholz; and three sisters: Judy Eichholz, Marlyn Linnenbrink, and Betty Lepper and sister-in-law Carol Stegeman, Leona Eichholz, and Pat Eichholz and brothers-in-law Irvin Linnenbrink and Richard Stegeman. 

Visitation will be Monday, November 18, 2024, from 9:00 am to 11:00 am at St. Louis of France Catholic Church in Bonnots Mill. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 am with Fr. Anthony Rinaldo as the Celebrant. Interment will follow in the St. Louis of France Parish Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, expression of sympathy may be made to the Bonnots Mill Community Betterment Association.