Gerald A. Richter

Gerald A. Richter, 86, of Lake Tomahawk, passed away on May 23, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

              Gerald was born May 23, 1938, in West Allis, Wisconsin, to Lillian and George Richter. He served in the U.S. Army in 1959 to 1961. Jerry is survived by his wife SanDee, two daughters, Selena Wagner, and Nora Zdravkovich (Thom). Five grandchildren: Heather Garstecki (Andy), Nicole Colton (William), Ryan Smarelli, Mat Smarelli (Jessie) and Justin Smarelli. Six great grandchildren: Kya Colton, Isabel Chojnacki, Mason and Ava Smarelli, and Emmi and Teagan Smarelli. One sister, Judy Dunifer, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, father, stepfather, brother Jim, and one stepbrother John.

              Jerry and SanDee were married on Dec. 26, 1959, in West Allis, while Jerry was in the Army. They started out their married life in El Paso, TX. After service, they moved back to Milwaukee where Jerry worked for Allen Bradley Co. He worked there for 38 years. After retirement he worked part time for Laidlaw driving a school bus for the handicap.

              They moved to Lake Tomahawk in 2000 to be closer to SanDee’s family. Jerry worked for Howard Young Hospital as a courier part time. They joined (NCHA) National Campers and Hiker’s Association where they met many friends and camped in many states at Convention time each year. They also joined Beertown Campers of Milwaukee. He was very active in Bow and Arrow Club’s at Wiffen’s Archery in Milwaukee. He received many trophies. He was a great deer hunter, loved to fish and hunt.

              Jerry joined the American Legion in Lake Tomahawk. He loved to read western books and watch the old westerns on T.V. He had a great sense of humor, always a wise crack or funny saying. He loved his daughters, grandchildren and all the great grandchildren. He loved playing cards, dominos, and games with them.

The family wants to thank Jerry’s nurse Jeanne, social worker Sara and their teams for the wonderful care they provided him and the family during this time.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 31, 2024, at 11:00am at Nimsgern Funeral & Cremation Services. The service will begin at 12:00 noon.