Gerald (Jerry, Jumbo) R. Klemme, born on November 19, 1940, passed away Monday July 10,
2023, in the comfort of his home surrounded by his loving wife and family. Jerry graduated from
Plymouth High School in 1959 and was a dedicated lifelong Kohler Company employee until his
retirement in 2003. Jerry married his high school sweetheart Reta (Noordyk) – a dedicated and
loving wife who together celebrated their 64 th anniversary in April. Jerry was the proud father of
3 children – Jamie Gambrell (Robert), Jeri Lynn Klemme Zaiac (Martin – former husband), Gary
Klemme (Laura) and grandfather of 7 – Jesse (Emily Powers – partner) and Zach Gambrell
(Maddie Eggert – partner); Olivia, Max, and Andrew Zaiac; Jake (Johanna) and Caitlyn Klemme
(Alex Teteak – fiancé).
Jerry and Reta found joy in attending their grandchildren’s events and would travel miles to
watch them compete. Anyone who knew Jerry understood he was the Packers greatest fan and
passed this love on to his children and grandchildren who will forever carry on his passion of
being a “Packer Backer”. Jerry enjoyed fishing, deer hunting with his son, snowmobiling, 5 th
wheeling, gardening, golfing, and armchair coaching while eating peanut M&M’s. He was
famous for his brat and pork patty fry outs, amazing chili, and wonderful home baked bread.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents Roland and Elsie Klemme, his sister Marjean
(James) Preece, and brother Ronald Klemme.
A private service and Celebration of Life were held to commemorate Jerry’s passions.
To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit www.zimmerfuneralhome.com
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