Herman J. Frerker
February 28, 1925 - June 27, 2020
Obituary
MADISON - Herman Joseph Frerker, age 95, of Madison, passed away on Saturday, June 27, 2020. He was born on Feb. 28, 1925, in Germantown, Ill. , the son of Henry Joseph and Anna (Haake) Frerker.
Herman, known to many as simply Jerry, was known for his generous heart and contagious smile. He graduated from Aviston High School. He proudly served in the United States Army Air Force in World War II. Herman married the love of his life, Ilene Abdoo, on Feb. 17, 1947. He worked as a butcher for 36 years at Piggly Wiggly/Eagle Foods, and was a member of the American Legion since 1952. Herman enjoyed hunting, fishing, and family vacations at the lake. He was an avid sports fan, but especially liked baseball. He will always be remembered as a fantastic card player, storyteller, jokester, and baker.
He is preceded in death by his loving companions; his parents; his wife, Ilene; and daughter-in-law, Sharon Frerker. His words of wisdom will live on in his adult children, Terry (Teri) Frerker, Robert (Barb) Frerker, Richard Frerker, Jane (Jim) Steinmetz and Barbara (John) Spencer; his loving grandchildren, Amy, Chad, Katie, Nathan, Natasha, Darin, Anthony, Jamie, Jenna, and Nick. He was blessed with 11 great-grandchildren, with one more precious little girl on the way. Jerry is survived by his siblings, John Frerker, Marie Fletcher, Jerome (Betty) Frerker, and Ralph Frerker; and several nieces and nephews.
Herman will be deeply missed by all who loved him, but especially his dear friends, Kenny (Jean) Kabele, Bob (Katie) Watts, Bob (Sandy) Vitense, Dave (Vicki) Burritt, Dan (Diane) Koellen, Larry (Kathi) Goodman and their families.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH, 5101 Schofield St, Monona, at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 11, 2020. A visitation will be held at the church from 9 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday. There will be a celebration of life held at a later date. Please revisit the webpage for updated details.
Memorials may be made to Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church.
The family would like to thank SSM Hospice at Home, Carman from Full Spectrum, and Freedom Care LLC. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420
Events
Visitation
Sat Jul 11, 2020 @ 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM CDT
Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church Monona • 5101 Schofield St., Monona, WI 53716
Mass of Christian Burial
Sat Jul 11, 2020 @ 10:00 AM CDT
Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church Monona • 5101 Schofield St., Monona, WI 53716
Photos
No photos of Herman have been shared yet.
Memories
K
Kharmen
Other •
I have so many of them I enjoyed every I got to spend knowing him. He was funny and such a sweet soul. The first time I heard him swear was the funniest thing there was a look on his face and he said I better watch my language in front of a lady. I tried to hold it in but we both giggled.
KG
Kathi & Larry Goodman
Other •
We always say that Jerry is "one of a kind" and mean it in the most loving way. Our lives are better for having shared the good times, the difficult times, and some competitive card games with him. Your smile and laughter will always be with us. Rest well, Jerry.
C
Christine
Other •
Herman was the kindest person I've ever met. The time we spent together was always great, filled with stories of him growing up, his wonderful family and sharing some of his famous banana bread . I am blessed to have known such a great man. My condolences to the family.
DK
Dan Koellen
Other •
Jerry was a very special person to all that had the privilege of knowing him. We were very fortunate to have Jerry as part of our lives and a special friend to our family. I will always remember, and cherish, our visits to Toby's and Michael's and the hours spent planning Chinese Rummy.
JR
Jody Reese
Other •
Dear Cousins, We are so sorry for your loss. Jerry had a wonderful long life and still had such a wonderful memory. We regret to say we are not able to attend the services on Saturday. We have many fond memories from good times with Jerry and Ilene and all of you. From the card plying into the wee hours of the morning, fishing, hunting baseball and family gatherings. Sending you our love and hugs at this difficult time. Love and hugs Jody and Bill