Gerald (Jerry) J. Page, age 77 of Appleton, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 31st, at home with his family by his side. Gerald was born on April 30th, 1945 at the home of the late Ernest and Mabel (Bohn) Page. Jerry always spoke to everyone about the great childhood he had growing up in Bear Creek where he attended school and helped his father at Page’s Mobil. He made lifelong friends and shared many memorable escapades with them. After graduating from Bear Creek High in 1963, Gerald joined the National Guard in May 1964 and later transferred to United States Army spending 2 years in Germany. He was honorably discharged in May of 1968. Upon being discharged, he and his best friend Mike McClone lived in Maryland for a year working on road construction and having good times driving around in the Maserati.
Upon returning to Wisconsin, Gerald got a job working at Miller Electric (ITW) where he retired from after 33 dedicated years. Gerald married Carolyn Meyer in 1972, at St Joseph’s Parish in Appleton. They were married for 40 years, and even after divorce, they shared a lifetime bond that could not be broken. Gerald spent many great times in Shawano with his friends, Bob Wendorf, Jim Nordor and Stu Hanke, who are waiting to welcome him to the big lake in the sky. We are sure they will have the beer cold and the party ready.
Gerald was a member of St Joseph’s Parish in Appleton for 50 years. He was a fair and generous man who would help anyone in need. He was a foster parent to many boys and girls, of whom he adopted 3. He had a passion for watching sports and he was a dedicated fan of the Packers and Brewers.
Gerald is survived by Carolyn; his daughter, Avery (Raven Schinke), and his sons; Brad (Kelly) and Randy. As well as his 4 grandchildren; Emaleigh, Ireland, Sean, and Ashton. Whom he adored and loved spending time with. He is also survived by his brothers; Bill (Darlene) Leander, TX; Milton (Linda) of Hortonville, and sisters-in-law; Donna Page of Clintonville and Lynn Page of Appleton. The nieces, nephews, and cousins are too numerous to list, but they all had a special place in his heart.
Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers and sisters; Roger and John Page, Janice (Willard) Fletcher, Marilyn (Glen) Wilhelm, Shirley Mae, and Jean Evelyn. As well as his father and mother-in-law: Bill & Marion Meyer, and brother-in-law: Jim Meyer, CO.
The family wishes to thank the many nieces, nephews, and friends that came to see him in his last days. It was great hearing all the stories and laughter that was shared.
Thanks to his brother Bill for traveling from TX to share his love and time with Gerald, helping in so many ways, and just being so supportive.
Many thanks to his sister-in-law Sue Ertl for all the trips she made being our “gopher” and bringing yummy food for us to eat.
A special thanks to Mike McClone, Gerald’s friend from the age of 4, for always having his back and for forever being by his side. Such a special friend is hard to come by.
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I’ll keep my head above the water and keep on paddling, Dad. -Tadpole
Grandpa, I always loved listening to your stories. You used such dramatic hand motions and they always made me giggle. -Emma
Grandpa, When I was little I loved taking naps with you. You always had some sport playing on TV and we laid on top of your packer blanket watching until I fell asleep. -Pudge
Bumpa, thanks for all the noogies. It’s okay that you messed up my hair. -Ash
We met, partied, fell in love, raised a family, divorced, fell in love again, and through it all we were always there for each other. Love you “Super Stud” -Carol
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A funeral liturgy will be held at St Joseph’s Parish, 404 W Lawrence Street, Appleton on Aug 13th at 11:00am. Military honors will immediately to follow mass. Visitation will be at the church from 10:00AM until the time of mass.
