Jerry P. Lang

1947 - 2025

Jerry P. Lang, age 77, passed away at home after a brief illness on Tuesday, January 28. He was born in Woodbury, NJ on November 14, 1947, to Fred and Dorothy (Peters) Lang. He earned a bachelor's degree in history from Franklin and Marshall College and a second bachelor's degree in criminal justice/political science from Columbus College while serving in the U.S. Air Force stationed at Fort Benning, GA. He earned a master's degree in the administration of justice from American University. He married Diane Appleton on July 14, 1979, on Long Beach Island, NJ. He was employed with the state of South Dakota, where he was the first court administrator ever appointed to the Sioux Intertribal Court of Appeals. Later he worked for the state of Wisconsin as a District Court Administrator.

Jerry loved all living things, and volunteered for the Oshkosh Zoo Society, the Oshkosh Area Humane Society, Learning in Retirement, the ACLU, and local literacy councils, among others. His natural curiosity, open-mindedness, and passion for learning were always leading him to new interests: languages, horticulture, music, archery, woodworking, book editing, fencing, and above all, avid reading. In his younger years, he was a wild child on a motorcycle. He enjoyed sailing, biking the local trails, and lake kayaking. He embraced country life and was often found driving his tractor or maintaining the diverse orchards and pine groves that he planted. He was dedicated to feeding birds and local wildlife and enjoyed pointing out a new visiting species. He was trustworthy and fair, a powerful mentor and role model, and lived unmatched in integrity. His thoughtfulness and quiet wisdom made him seem prepared for anything. He was a patient teacher, loving friend, devoted son, husband and father, selfless, kind, and full of humor to the last.

He is survived by his wife, Diane; two daughters, Darcy (Steve) and Cassie (Kellie); and two grandchildren, Graysen and Maddi. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Barry Lang. Please consider a donation to the Oshkosh Food Pantry or the Neenah Animal Shelter in his name.