Racine- Gerald Wayne Zinke, age 69, passed away peacefully at Wheaton Franciscan – All Saints Medical Center on Friday evening, April 26, 2013 – surrounded with the love of his family after a courageous 21-year battle with cancer.
Jerry was born in Racine on July 16, 1943 to the late William and Doris (nee: Post) Zinke. With a keen sense of humor, if asked about his education – “How far did you go with your schooling?”his answer would be…”2 blocks”. Faithfully, Jerry served our country with the Wisconsin National Guard 32nd Infantry Division during the Berlin Crisis. He was employed by Jacobsen Textron for more than 39 years.
At age 15, Jerry met and began dating the love of his life, Janice R. Pinnow. They were married on December 14, 1963. Together they raised two adoring daughters, Terri and Kerri. As an outdoor enthusiast, he was often spotted riding around the neighborhood on his scooter, grilling out and having an occasional cold beer (or three). The winter months were spent cheering on the Green Bay Packers. Above all, Jerry loved and cherished being together with his entire family.
Left to cherish his beautiful memory are his loving wife of nearly 50 years, Janice; their daughters, Terri (Greg) Ailes and Kerri Hanson; seven grandchildren, Christy, Scottie, Dylan, Zach, Hunter, Jacob and Karlee; brother, Bobby Zinke; sisters-in-law, Barb (Steve) Jensen, Lorraine Zinke and Bev Wood; brothers-in-law, David Pinnow and Bob Rashleger; nieces and nephews, Randy (Terri) Rashleger, Bobby (Carolyn) Rashleger, Kathy (Steve) Pfund, Connie (Steve) Olsen, Susie (Nick) Fesko, Will McWhorter, Amy (Fritz) Obernberger, Debbie Jensen, Steve (Karen) Jensen, Aaron (Shelly) Pinnow and Ben; and by many, many, many more loved ones and friends.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, William and Doris Zinke; infant son, Jon; parents-in-law, Karl and Hildur Pinnow; brother, Bill Zinke; “close” cousin, Ted Wood; sisters, Lois Rashleger and Lynn Marchant; brother-in-law, Karl Pinnow; and nieces, Dorrie and Talena.
A homegoing service celebrating Jerry’s life will be in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 1, 2013 at 12:00 noon with Pastors Willie and Jeremy Scott officiating. Interment, with military honors, will take place in West Lawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Wednesday from 10 am – 12 noon. As Jerry would approve, please omit sending flowers.
The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to Dr. Ryan Engel, D.O. and the nurses and staff at Wheaton Franciscan Cancer Center for the compassionate care they provided to Jerry.
Linda Britten Boyer says
Just waned to send condolences to you and your family, Jan. I remember when you two were dating and how cute you both were! The bible speaks of a time when death will be no more. (Rev 21:3,4). Please find comfort in that thought.