WILD ROSE / MONONA - Gerald John Sobczak, age 84, passed away after a brief illness on Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2023. He was born on Feb. 25, 1939, in Chicago, the son of Stephen and Marie (Zarembinski) Sobczak.

Jerry grew up on his beloved farm in Grand Marsh and graduated from Adams-Friendship High School in 1957. While attending UW-Madison, he felt fortunate to meet the love of his life, Patricia. Shortly after they were married, Jerry was called to serve his country, and he did so honorably in the U.S. Army as an M.P. in Korea. He worked briefly as a City of Madison police officer. Then he changed direction and spent the remainder of his career in sales leadership, most notably at the Coca Cola Company.

Jerry was quite the storyteller, regularly regaling friends and family with tales of his adventures. He often started them with “to make a long story short,” and although they rarely were, they always ended with his trademark hearty laugh.

Jerry relished life with Pat and their children, Daniel and David. He took pleasure in fishing and boating, making home improvements, and taking Pat on trips throughout the Midwest. He built a beautiful sunroom in which Pat was able to rest and enjoy the sun and birds in her final years. He adored his grandchildren, and they in turn adored him. Whatever they were up to, his goal was to make and keep it fun. To that end, he once constructed an elaborate sentry shelter at the end of the driveway to keep the kids cozy while waiting for the bus. Later in life, he returned to central Wisconsin, where he treasured time spent with his extended family. His faithful dog, Cooper, followed him everywhere and happily ate whatever Jerry was eating, including steaks and Friday fish fry.

Jerry is survived by his sons, Daniel (Patricia Devries) Sobczak and David (Connie) Sobczak; grandchildren, Erin Sobczak, Jenna Sobczak, Nicole (Matthew) Starrs, Kelli (Cale) Grossman, Matthew Sobczak, Julie (Alex Hess) Devries, Lisa Devries and Tom (Tonya) Devries; and eight great- grandchildren. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Patricia (Lembrich); his parents; his brothers, Stephen Sobczak and Richard Sobczak; and his grandson, Daniel Devries.

Private family services have been held.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Gerald J Sobczak

February 25, 1939 - December 12, 2023

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