Gerald "Jerry" C. Miller

Gerald “Jerry” C. Miller, age 80, of Sparta, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at his home surrounded by family. Born in Pine Hollow, rural Cashton, to Clem and Irene (Schmitz) Miller, Jerry was raised in the area before moving to Angelo and graduating from Sparta High School in 1962.

Jerry worked at Northern Engraving in Sparta for many years, dedicating himself to his work before retiring. His service to his country included a proud stint in the United States Army, where he was stationed at Truax Field in Madison, WI as a radar technician. After his discharge, he returned to Sparta to continue his life, full of love for his family and community.

In 1967, Jerry married Charlene Degenhardt at St. Mary’s Ridge, rural Cashton. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories. Jerry was a man who enjoyed the simple pleasures of life—gardening, hunting, fishing, bowling, and softball. He was also a proud member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Sparta, where he participated in his faith community.

He will be dearly missed by his beloved wife, Char; his children, Heidi (Rob Mahan) Kast of Sparta and Brian (Brenda) Miller of Onalaska; his grandchildren, Cody (fiancé, Amber Murphy) Kenyon of Sparta, Ryan Miller of Minneapolis, MN, Amury of Eau Claire, Alexis Miller of Onalaska, Mackenzie Miller of Onalaska, and Caden (Chloe McEachern) Miller of Eau Claire; his great-granddaughter, Ophelia Miller; and his sister, Lois Klimek of Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clem and Irene; stepfather, LeRoy Janes; brother-in-law, Casey Klimek; and nephew, Scott Klimek.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:00 noon on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Sparta, with Father Eric Berns officiating. Family and friends are invited to visit from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon on Saturday at the church.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to those who have supported them during this time. Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com.

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation of Sparta is assisting the family with arrangements.

He was a man of faith, family, and service, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

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