Jerry M. Endres

Jerry Endres, age 84, joined his Savior in heaven on January 28, 2026. He was born on February 23, 1941, in New London, Wisconsin to John and Alice Endres.

A man with a heart as big as his smile, Jerry dedicated his life to serving others. He had a rare gift for connection, genuinely interested in every person he met, whether a lifelong friend or a complete stranger. His family often joked that he could travel anywhere in the world and still manage to run into at least seven people he knew.

Wherever he went, he brought light, kindness, and a sense of being truly seen. Many called him "Friendly Jer" and his sense of humor was contagious.

He loved playing cards, especially countless games of sheepshead, and treasured time spent with family and friends. His fondest memories were made on trips to the cabin, at deer camp, on fishing trips, and time spent with his good friend Marlin. His favorite parts of the week were his Tuesday morning men's group, Tuesday afternoon card group, his Tuesday evening life group, and Wednesday afternoon card group. He cherished time with his grandchildren, whom he was incredibly proud of and absolutely adored his two great-granddaughters, who brought him immense joy.

Jerry served in The United States Air Force from 1960-1964. He then worked in the vending business for his entire career. He started out at Zaug's and then went to ARA. He told many stories of his route at King Veteran's Home and Waupaca Foundry. He ran his own scrap metal business, "Cash for Copper" in Appleton. After more than 30 years of dedicated work with Aramark, Jerry retired in 2002 and embraced the next 25 years as a season of service and blessing. He volunteered for several years at St. Elizabeth's Hospital and later became an active and beloved member of his church, where he earned the affectionate title of "The Unofficial Greeter." No one ever felt like a stranger for long.

His family was his greatest treasure, yet his care extended far beyond it. He spent countless hours on the phone, checking in on others and their families, always reminding them how loved they were. He had the biggest heart - and though it ultimately failed him, that same heart defined a lifetime of compassion, generosity, and faith.

Married for over 28 years, He was the most amazing husband to his beloved "Tweetie Pie," Nancy, and a devoted father, grandpa, and great-grandpa. He is survived by his wife, Nancy; his sons, Scott (Stacy) Endres and Randy (Cindy) Endres; his daughters, Heather (David) Gryboski and Theresa (Don) Honick; his grandchildren, Matthew (Bailey), Megan, Courtney (Eli), Jessica (Ken), Alex, Trentyn (Sabrina), Thomas (Lyndsay), Abbey (Alex), Molly (Hunter), Anthony (Heather), Donald, Derek; and his cherished great-granddaughters, Sienna and Eliana; siblings: John (Mary) Endres, Robert (Betty) Endres, Mary Quakenbush, and Nancy Robinson; and brothers and sisters-in-law: Randy Premeau, Diane (Bob) Sigl, Mike Gresen, and Julie Birling. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, John and Alice (Bergsbaken) Endres, his former wife and mother of his children, Cheryl (Nolan), his sister Dorothy (Premeau), his brother Thomas, sister-in-law Esther, mother-in-law Mary Birling, brother-in-law Larry, brother-in-law Bob Nolan, brother-in-law and dear friend Gary Nolan, brother-in-law Jim Quakenbush, and an infant daughter, Wendy.

Visitation will be held February 7, 2026, at CELEBRATION CHURCH FOX VALLEY (400 Third Street, Menasha) from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. Military Honors, conducted by the Neenah-Menasha Veterans Honor Guard, will begin at 10:45 a.m., followed by his Funeral at 11:00 a.m. Pastor Phil Gungor will officiate. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

A devoted follower of Jesus Christ, Jerry loved his Savior deeply and is now undoubtedly rejoicing in His presence in heaven.

Though deeply missed, Jerry leaves behind a legacy of love, service, faith, and friendship that will continue to ripple through the lives of all who were blessed to know him.

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