Gerald Strassman

MADISON-Gerald "Jerry" J. Strassman died Wednesday, November 26, 2014, surrounded by his loving children. He was 89. Born on August 11, 1925 in Madison WI. He grew up with his three brothers and one sister on Williamson Street in the Greenbush Neighborhood. He graduated from Edgewood High School in 1943. He was on the Edgewood Football team, and in his spare time, he raised pigeons and rabbits which he sold to local restaurants.
Jerry served in the United States Navy and was in the Pacific Theater in WWII. After the service he apprenticed as a mason. He went on to work for Vogel Brothers and ultimately on to the University of Wisconsin, from which he retired. By this point he had become a master craftsman and took on many local independent projects. His beautiful artisanal fireplaces and stone work grace many of Madison residences.
He married Gwen Wallom Bell in 1957. She was the love of his life. They were a very popular couple and enjoyed dining and dancing out at every opportunity. After the loss of his beloved wife, Jerry dedicated himself to family and his many, many friends. Jerry was an active member of St. Thomas Aquinas Church. He was cherished by many and had a host of lifelong friends.
Jerry is survived by his three children: Toni Jakovec, Michael (Patricia Kraemer), and Patricia (Charles) McGinnis; and seven grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Delores Strassman. He is preceded in death by his wife Gwen and his son-in-law John Jakovec.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Jerry will be at 11:00 AM on Monday, December 1, 2014 at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 602 Everglade Dr. in Madison. Visitation will be from 3-5 PM with a rosary beginning at 5PM at the Cress Center, 6021 University Ave. in Madison on Sunday, November 30, 2014 and will continue from 10-10:45 AM at the church on Monday. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Jerry's' life. Private burial will take place at St. Andrew's Catholic Cemetery in Verona.