Jerome Howard Wichgers passed away at Gables on the Pond in Random Lake on Thursday, November 11, 2021. He was 89 years old. Jerome was born on January 15, 1932, in St. Francis, Wisconsin to parents William and Clara (Troka) Wichgers. Jerome was united in marriage to Barbara (Koerschner) Wichgers on July 30, 1955, and they enjoyed 66 years of marriage. Together they had three sons.
Jerome was a very proud dedicated member of the Milwaukee Fire Department, where he served for 32 years before retiring as Deputy Chief. Jerome was equally proud of his 25 years enlisted in Air National Guard. He served during the Korean Conflict and was honorably discharged retiring as a Major. Jerome was active with many organizations, some of which were the American Legion Milwaukee Firefighters Post 426, Retired Fire and Police Association, American Legion, and a member of Our Lady of the Lakes Parish. Jerome was a master woodworker and had a love of music. He found great enjoyment cooking and sharing meals with family and friends. Jerome and Barbara enjoyed traveling and visited many national parks and monuments. Jerome will be deeply missed.
Jerome is survived by his wife Barbara, three sons Bill (Barbara) Seattle, WA, Tom (Maria), Harker Heights, TX, and Joel (Kim) Wichgers, Urbana, IA, grandchildren Nicole Wichgers (James Humiston), Pamela (Alan) Osterhout, Christopher, John and Javier Wichgers, and beloved sister-in-law Irene Wichgers. He is further survived by special nieces, nephews and other relatives and dear friends. Jerome is preceded in death by his siblings Dr. Ralph Wichgers. Geraldine Johnson, twins Deone DeLopst and Dr. Donald Wichgers, and Jane Simmons.
A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday, November 19, 2021, at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of the Lakes Parish – St. Mary's Chapel 300 Butler Street Random Lake, 53075. Visitation will be held at the CHURCH from 10:00 AM until the time of Mass at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Our Lady of the Lakes Parish – St. Mary's Chapel or the Random Lake Historical Society are appreciated.
Jerome's family wishes to thank Gables on the Pond for the exceptional care they provided Jerome.