Gerald "Jerry" Eugene Kalkofen, age 89, resident of Green Bay, WI passed away on December 17, 2022 with his beloved wife by his side. Jerry was born on January 26, 1933 to Clara Pitts and Frederick Kalkofen in Antigo, Wisconsin.

Jerry graduated from Antigo High School in 1951 before enlisting in the US Navy later that year. He proudly served on the Badoeng Strait, fondly known as "Bing Ding" by her crew members, as an electronics technician. He was honorably discharged in December of 1955. His sense of pride in his country never waned, and he was honored to have the opportunity to visit Washington DC on Old Glory Honor Flight #54 on Aug 21, 2021 in recognition of his service.

In 1956, Jerry moved to Mexico, MO with his parents to take over the local A&W Root Beer Stand, starting a long career in the hospitality industry. It was there he met the love of his life, Hazel Mae Dubray, a story that should only be told by her. Ask her the next time you see her in church. Jerry and Hazel married November 8, 1958.

Jerry was active in his service to the community in Mexico, MO and was awarded the Distinguished Service Award from the Jaycees. An avid hunter, he once tied for bagging the largest turkey in the state of Missouri at an enormous 27 pounds. He loved his bowling team and once bowled a perfect game.

Jerry returned to Wisconsin with Hazel and the girls in 1978, this time settling in Green Bay. They quickly found a spiritual home at Union Congregational United Church of Christ. After becoming a member, he was honored to take on roles within the church including serving as an usher, confirmation mentor, and committee member on the board of music. Up until his final days, he could frequently be heard humming, and often unapologetically belting out, his favorite hymns.

Upon his retirement, Jerry was often found sitting at the puzzle table, playing cribbage with his loved ones while sipping on scotch, volunteering as an usher at the Weidner Center and the Meyer Theatre, and rooting for his cherished Green Bay Packers.

He was affectionately known as Papa by his grandchildren. Papa was the biggest cheerleader for his children and grandchildren and rarely missed a game, award ceremony or musical performance. His big heart had plenty of space for more, and he considered many to be his chosen children and grandchildren. Guests and new friends were always welcome in Jerry and Hazel's home, and there was always another seat available at Jerry's table. His incredible kindness ensured that all who visited felt safe and welcome.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Fred, Leon, Lloyd, and Bob; and his sisters, Bernice Vavruska and Janet Gay.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Hazel; his children, Sharilyn Osell, Sheila "Shelbie" (Sean) Marker, and Misty; and his grandchildren, Anders Osell, Annika Osell, Lars Osell, and Jeffrey Newell.

Family and friends may visit at Union Congregational United Church of Christ, 716 S Madison St, Green Bay, from 9 to 10:45 AM, on Thursday, December 22, 2022. A service will begin at 11 AM with Rev. Bridget Flad Daniels officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made in his name to Old Glory Honor Flight (www.oldgloryhonorflight.org) or Union Congregational United Church of Christ, Green Bay.

The family would like to extend a warm thank you to all friends and family who have offered generous help during this difficult time and for all of your continued support. Our gratitude also lies with the staff of the Curative Connections Cloud Family Care Center.