Jerome “Jerry” Gaver

Jerome “Jerry” Gaver of Columbus died Friday, May 31, 2024, at his home.

Mass of Christian Burial is 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 5 at St. Anthony Catholic Church.  Visitation is on Tuesday from 4-7 p.m. at McKown Funeral Home with a Vigil Service to follow at 7 p.m., also at the funeral home.  Visitation continues Wednesday morning from 9:30 a.m. until service time at St. Anthony Church.  Interment is in St. Bonaventure Cemetery with Military Honors by The American Legion Hartman Post #84 Honor Guard.

Jerome J. Gaver was born Oct. 10, 1943, in Columbus to Carl and Angeline (Koziol) Gaver.  He grew up in Columbus where he attended St. Anthony grade school and graduated from Scotus Central Catholic in 1961.  Jerry was united in marriage to Marjorie Bialas on May 3, 1969, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Fullerton

Jerry’s dad passed away when he was 6.  He was a polio survivor and at the age of 9 he was in the Children’s Hospital and spent 6 months in an iron lung.  While in the hospital, Jerry carried on his studies and when he returned to school was so advanced he was able to skip the 5th grade.

Jerry worked at the Columbus Telegram from 1960-2008.  He started in the mailroom, advancing to Pressroom Foreman, and on to Production Manager.  He then drove truck for the Lincoln Journal Star from 2008-2016.  Jerry also drove for Hyvee online delivery and Papa G’s Party Buses.  Jerry was a member of St. Anthony Church, served as a Staff Sgt in the Army National Guard and was a member of the American Legion.

Jerry’s hobbies included listening and dancing to Polish music, watching stock car racing, and being with his grandchildren and furry pets.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Marjorie of Columbus; son, Joseph and his wife Angie of Fremont along with their children Shelby, Rachel, and Paige; son, Michael of Columbus; and son Jason and wife Kelly of Columbus with their children Ally and Isaac.

He is preceded in death by his parents

www.mckownfuneralhome.com