MIDDLETON - Gerald “Jerry” Luetkens passed away peacefully at his home in Middleton, Wis., on Sunday, Dec. 11, 2022. He battled health issues resulting in a weakened heart that could no longer support his will to live.

Jerry was born on Feb. 10, 1938, to Ervin and Nellie (nee Seamans) Luetkens. He graduated from Baraboo High School in 1957 and shortly after, moved to Madison to pursue a lifelong career as an electrician with Arrow Electric, where he ultimately became majority owner of the company. His very first job in Madison was wiring the then newly constructed Hilldale Mall in 1962.

Following retirement, Jerry continued working as a self-employed electrician also known as Dr. Kilowatt. He also utilized his skills as a project guy, eager to provide help to others. Jerry was always generous with his time helping family and friends with electrical questions and issues among many other things.

When Jerry decided to do something, he did it right, like recently designing and constructing a beautiful wood dining room table. He loved his home in Middleton, which was built in 1967, doing most of the work on the house from electrical to finish work. During the past months, despite failing health, he rebuilt his back patio. He also had an exceptional talent for growing orchids. There wasn’t much he couldn’t do.

His passion was his yard and kept it meticulously maintained. He was very proud of his fishpond and waterfall. Birds and deer loved his yard as well, spending lots of time frequenting the many bird feeders, while Jerry dealt with the never-ending battle against squirrels and chipmunks stealing the bounty.

With Jerry’s dislike for winter and enjoyment of warm sandy beaches, he loved his annual trips to Jamaica with close friends. The trip would break up the long winter bringing spring that much closer upon his return to Wisconsin.

Jerry participated in annual summer fishing trips to Ontario spanning over 25 years. The trips evolved to include his son, and eventually grandson, who all competed to log the most fish. These were cherished trips that created many memories with three generations in the boat.

Jerry is survived by his son, Christopher (Robyn) Luetkens, and children, Cali and Carter; daughter, Melissa Luetkens; sister, Joyce Steckel; brother, Kenneth Luetkens; and several nieces and nephews, especially Jane Marie Pechauer, who held a special place in his heart. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Melvin and David; and sister, Joan Francois.

A celebration of life will be held upstairs at the Craftsman Table and Tap, 6712 Frank Lloyd Wright Ave., Middleton, from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2023. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson West

Funeral & Cremation Care

7435 University Ave.

(608) 831-6761

Gerald Ervin Luetkens

February 10, 1938 - December 11, 2022

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