Jerry A. Rzepka

Jerry Rzepka, age 80, of Ashwaubenon, passed away on September 29, 2025 surrounded by loving family members.

He was born on January 8, 1945 to Bernard and Evelyn (Suhajda) Rzepka in Chicago, IL.

Jerry lived an extremely full life, making his home in Illinois, California and Wisconsin. He always went out of his way to make those around him smile — from the cashier at the grocery store to one of his six grandchildren to the nurses who cared for him in his later years.

Jerry achieved notable success in each part of his varied career. He rose from UPS delivery man to owning his own trucking company in the 70s; thrived as a salesman, climbing the ranks at Time Inc. and then mortgage banking in the 1980s; he concluded his career as a tournament-winning professional muskie fisherman.

Jerry was a caring, tender man who was married five times. Unions with Janet Shaw, Phyllis Dunaway and Sandy Annino begat his three children: Gail (Charlie) Calderon, Jason Rzepka and Samantha (Phil) DeSilva, who survive him. He is also survived by grandchildren Jesse, Brandon, Kalyn, Madison and Alena Calderon, plus Ella Rzepka. The Krauses, of Seymour, became “chosen family.”

He was preceded in death by his parents Bernard and Evelyn Rzepka, brother Terry Rzepka and wife Phyllis Dunaway.

Jerry served multiple tours of duty during the Vietnam War, most notably with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 8, where he was recognized with the National Defense Service Medal and Fleet Marine Force Combat Operation Insignia.

He was an avid angler and sportsman who found joy launching a fishing boat at dawn, sinking a 20-foot birdie putt and picking up an elusive 7-10 split. Jerry’s infectious spirit is best summarized in just three words: “Taaake it eeeaaaasy.”

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 3, 2025, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Newcomer (340 S. Monroe Ave, Green Bay). In lieu of flowers, Jerry has requested any donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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