MADISON - Gerald “Jerry” Bernard Celentani, age 74, of Madison, passed away on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024, at home. He was born on Feb. 25, 1950, in Rochester, N.Y., the son of Ralph and Elizabeth (Kelly) Celentani.

Jerry graduated from Bishop McQuaid Jesuit High School in Rochester, N.Y. in 1968. At the age of 17, he joined the U.S. Navy Reserve and upon graduation he was placed on active duty. Jerry was assigned to the USS Harold J. Ellison DD-864, 6th fleet as Mm3 from 1968-1971; Mediterranean and Caribbean tours. He was patriotic and proud of his service in the military.

Jerry moved to Madison, Wis., in 1972. He was united in marriage to Kathy Stablewski in September of 1973. He worked for MG&E from 1973-2011. Jerry will be fondly remembered for being a hard worker and a man of honor. He was stoic and had a wonderful sense of humor. Jerry loved traveling to Daytona Beach with his wife Kathy, participating in activities with his son, Steve, golfing, and spending time with his friends.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Kathy; son, Steve Celentani; brothers, John (Colleen) Celentani and Jim (Jeri) Celentani; sisters, Mary (Bob Annen) Celentani and Christina (Romy) Mortel; sister-in-law, Mary Susan Celentani; nephews, John and Paul; nieces, Laura, Susan, Ave and Bella; and many great-nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Elizabeth; brother, Ralph Celentani; and sister Eleanor Celentani.

A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 12 noon on Friday, Oct. 11, 2024. A visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday. The family invites guests to join them for light refreshments following the service at the funeral home.

Jerry’s family extends a heartfelt thank you to Bristol Hospice for their care and compassion during his final days. Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society (donate.cancer.org/). Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Gerald "Jerry" Bernard Celentani

February 25, 1950 - September 22, 2024

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