Gerald A. Weilandt

Gerald ‘Jerry’ Weilandt, age 80, of La Crosse, WI died peacefully June 14, 2017, surrounded by his loving family at Mayo Clinic Health System from neuroendocrine carcinoma.  He was born to Harry and Viola (Leas) Weilandt on September 22, 1936 in La Crosse.  He married Marceen McGregor on June 2, 1962 at the Cathedral Parish in La Crosse.
Jerry was a diehard Packers fan, loved to read, tell stories, and would tease about his favorite beverage “Downtown Brown Ale” from the Pearl Street Brewery.  He took special pleasure providing fresh water and treats for the daily dog walkers on Weston St.  His greatest pleasure in life, however, was his family whom he loved dearly. Hardly a day went by that he didn’t tell his wife how much he loved her and needed her in his life. His gratitude for the blessings in his life was evident when he managed to work in his grandchildren’s accomplishments into every conversation.
Jerry worked at Trane Co. for 31 years. After retiring, he and Marcie opened an Amish Furniture store called the Country Shed. By far, though, his most rewarding experience was working at the Whitney Center at UWL.  While bussing tables in the cafeteria he was able to meet and joke around with hundreds of students. He enjoyed telling stories, giving encouragement before big tests, and sometimes even offering a little relationship advice.  He soon became known as “Grandpa Jerry” especially to students living away from their own families. Wonderful cards and notes still appear in the mail.  These were among his most treasured keepsakes.
Even as he neared the end of his physical life, he was able to maintain a positive outlook and signature sense of humor.  One of the last witty comments he was able to share with his family was, as Porky Pig always said, “Th-Th-Th- That’s all folks!”
He is survived by his beloved wife Marcie of 55 years; 3 children, Kellie (Mike) Berg, Mark (Bonnie) Weilandt, and Steve (Diane) Weilandt; 7 grandchildren, Megan (Tony) Zobeck and Rachel Berg, Jamie and Tony Weilandt, Justin (Savannah) Weilandt, Joey and Cameron Weilandt, and 2 great-grandchildren Jensen Zobeck and Bennett Weilandt.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his mother and father in-law Theresa and Nick Heintz, brother in-law Bob McGregor, sister in-law and brother in-law Linda and Denny Hansen, and sister in-law Beatrice Twitty.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, August 5, 2017, at 10:30 a.m., at Mary, Mother of the Church Parish, 2006 Weston St. in La Crosse. Rev. Brian D. Konopa will officiate, with entombment to follow at the Catholic Cemetery Masoleum on Losey Blvd. Friends and family may call from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, August 4, 2017, at Mary, Mother of the Church Parish, and again from 9:30 a.m. until the time of Mass on Saturday.

The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to all the doctors and nurses at the Mayo Cancer Center and the 7th floor & ICU team of doctors and nursing staff for their kindness, care and guidance through this difficult time.