Gerald "Jerry" L. Guentz

Jerry was born August 22, 1934, in Winona, Minnesota, the third son of Douglas Vernon and Beatrice (Loeding) Guentz. Joining brothers Douglas and John.

The family later moved to La Crosse, WI where Jerry developed long lasting relationships. It was in high school that Jerry met Joan who would become his wife and best friend of nearly seventy-one years. They were blessed with five children Jerry A., Tim (Joan), Carrie, Sue, and Dan.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Joan, and children Jerry, Tim (Joan), Sue, and Dan. Grandchildren, Jason, Phil, Sarah, Charlie, Erick, and Mel. Great grandchildren, Isabella, Tristan, and Elise, Ivy, Emma, and Andrew. He is also survived by sister-in law, Billie Guentz and her children April, Holly, and Matt. Family members proceeding Jerry in death are his parents, brothers, Doug, John, and daughter, Carrie, daughter-in-law, Kathy, and sister-in-law, June Guentz.

Jerry loved life and people. He always strived to do better and took every opportunity to do so. He completed his education while holding down a full- time job as a La Crosse police officer, graduating from UW-L and UW-M with a Master’s Degree in Social Work. A short time later qualifying as a clinical Social Worker. He entered the field working at St. Michael’s Home for Children and later in Employee Assistance at Trane Company in La Crosse. He was asked to join the Crisis Intervention Team at Gundersen and did so for several years. He also worked part-time at WWTC in the OWI program for twenty-seven years.

In his spare time, he officiated several sports including football, softball, and baseball. Even bravely officiating wrestling for a while.

Jerry’s affection for his family and others showed in the way he conducted his life. Even though Alzheimer’s slowed him down, his great sense of humor and wit remained until the very end.

A special thank you is extended to the emplify Hospice team for their excellent caring support. Memorials may be directed to Crucifixion Catholic Parish to build the Daycare Faith Information Center.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Crucifixion Catholic Church, La Crescent. Friends may call at the church on Saturday from 9:30 AM until the time of service. Committal services will be held on Monday, December 15 at 11:00 AM in the Catholic Cemetery, La Crosse.