The Free Press, Mankato, MN

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November 3, 2009

Jerome (Jerry) Edward Wannarka

Devoted husband, loving father, and doting grandfather, Jerome (Jerry) Edward Wannarka passed away November 2.

Jerry was born on October 2, 1934 to John and Bernice Wannarka (nee Beckstrom) in Fairmont, MN. He graduated from Loyola High School in the spring of 1952.

On August 15, 1955, Jerry married his beloved wife, Shirley Yoder at Ss Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church in Mankato. He was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Gaylord.

As a dedicated farmer, Jerry took great pride in his work and especially treasured his John Deere tractors. In addition to farming, he spent 20 years employed at Hiniker Company and 18 years at Ramy Seed (Ramy Turf) in Mankato. In life, Jerry’s favorite things included sharing stories with friends and family and indulging in his wife’s baking.

He is survived by his wife Shirley; children: Paul (Cindy) Wannarka, Wayne (Lynette) Wannarka, and Ann (Peter) Koch; grandchildren: Faith and Brittney Wannarka, Weston and Courtney Wannarka, Ben, Eliza, and Jacob (Laurie) Koch; sisters, Marjorie Wannarka and Nancy Kaputsa (nee Wannarka); sister-in-law Shirley Wannarka (nee Betin); and nieces and nephews.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents John and Bernice, brother Patrick, and son Peter.

Mass of Christian burial will be held on Friday, November 6 at 11:00 a.m. at Ss Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Mankato with Rev. Ted Hottinger officiating. Visitation will be on Thursday from 4-8 p.m. with a 4 p.m. rosary at Landkamer-Johnson-Boman Funeral Home. Visitation will also continue one hour prior to services at the church. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery.

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