Wednesday April 5, 2023 Jerry passed away peacefully in his sleep surrounded by family. We will miss his humor, heart and hugs.
Jerry grew up in Festus, Missouri, where he attended Festus High School and met the love of his life Gerry (nee. Son). They were soon married and promptly moved to Bremerton, Washington where Jerry served in the Navy as yeoman on the troop transport ship “The Anderson”, which sailed between the west coast and occupied Japan. Because the ship had no priest, Jerry volunteered to be the chaplain for Sunday services. He always said he joined the Navy to see Hawaii, but during his tour he only experienced one 6-hour layover there.
After the birth of their first son Mark and the end of military service, Jerry and Gerry settled in St. Louis and had two more sons, Jeff and Scott. Jerry had many friends and great memories, including those in the Epiphany, St. Gabriel and Assumption parishes.
Jerry enjoyed the outdoors, golfing, family camping trips, and watching all the local sports teams. His downtime included working puzzles and brain teasers.
The British Virgin Islands were a special place for Jerry and Gerry, where they vacationed for over 30 years, and later took the whole family to celebrate he and Gerry’s 50th wedding anniversary.
In addition to his sales career, he and Gerry founded local businesses including The Idea Shop, Klein Arts & Crafts, and EASL Publications.
Jerry was extremely generous and had a deep love for his family and made every one of us feel special and loved. He was a safety net for many and our ‘rock’. We will miss him dearly.
He is survived by his loving wife Gerry of 67 years, sons Mark, Jeff (Jeanne) and Scott (Jane Sueme), grandchildren April Stewart (Ryan), Mercedes Rethmeyer (Jake), Mariah Lockwood (Grant), Alex and Lucas; great-grandfather to DJ, Kaleb, Juliet, Carter and Tucker. He is preceded in death by siblings William “Bill”, and Evelyn Quijada.
Services: A mass will be held Wednesday May 17, 2023 at 10:00 am at Assumption Catholic Church 4725 Mattis Rd, St. Louis, MO 63128, followed by military honors and interment at Jefferson Barracks Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to the American Heart Association or a charity of your choice.
My deepest condolences go out to you Mark and your entire family. My God watch over and accept your father into his Kingdom to enjoy everlasting life .
Jerry was such a special man – the kind you might only meet once or twice in a lifetime. I’m so happy that we were among those whose lives he touched. Gerry, you, Mark, Scott and Jeff are in our thoughts and prayers as you navigate this most difficult time. Our love to all of you.
Gerry and family, I want to send my deepest sympathy. I am thinking of you and wishing you and your family strength and comfort in the days ahead. May you find comfort in the knowledge that many are holding you in their hearts. I hope all of the good memories sustain you during this time of grief. Keep those memories close to your heart and he will never be far from you.
Jeff, Barbara and I wish to offer our deepest sympathy and condolences to you and your family. You’re father was quite a guy. Inspiration to those that touched him I’m sure. May he rest in peace with the Lord.
Both treated me with respect and dignity and took me in as their fourth son at holiday gatherings.
You made me feel like gold and I shall never forget that. Thank you for your kindness.
RIP, loved you like a dad.
Jim Privitor | John Killoran
Gerry and Family, Kay, Carrie and I offer our deepest sympathy. Jerry was a great guy with a wonderful sense of humor, and truly cared about people. The Holy Spirit really shone through him, and he was truly a blessing to the world–he will be missed! He and Ed were such great friends–I know they are both in heaven checking out the golf greens! We will keep your family in our prayers.
I was so sorry to see Jerry’s name listed on the Stltoday obit page. My thoughts and prayer to you Gerry and the rest of the family. I remember all that was done while I was hanging around the Idea Shop. he always had a smile and was there to lend a helping hand. I will send prayers your way
Dear Mrs. Klein: I was so sorry to hear about Mr. Klein’s passing. I have such fond memories of him and your entire family from many, many years ago! What a special man. My sincerest sympathies. Know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Such a wonderful man. My deepest sympathies.
A BEAUTIFUL tribute to one very special man! He was like a second father to me growing up. The strong relationship that Jerry and Gerry shared made a lasting impression on me. I’m so thankful for that.
Sending love and prayers to you all.