Jerome Modzelewski

On May 5, 2017, at 7:30 a.m., Jerome Anthony Modzelewski, born on February 6, 1940, passed on to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. His mother, Sophia, and father, Frank, predeceased him. His surviving family are a brother, Ernest of Phoenix, AZ; his daughter, Michelle Timmons; his grandsons, Ryan and Nicholas; and son-in-law ,Trey Timmons of Worton, MD. Jerry lived a full and exciting life split between six months in Fort Lauderdale, and six months in Minocqua, WI. He had a passion for the water. He enjoyed fishing , boating, waterskiing and most of all the "VIEW." Jerry graduated from Bloom T.H.S in Chicago Heights, IL, and the University of Illinois with a degree in Urban Land Economics. But his profession was self-taught and instinctive. He had an entrepreneurial talent for creating beauty out of swampland and dense forest. During his early years in Minoqua, he worked at Bosacki's BoatHouse and then for 15 years with Bill Yescheck and Pat Stone. The Olde Minocqua Boardwalk shopping center and medical center are prime examples of his vision. He had a knack for seeing potential when others saw only problems. His creative talent was not limited to real estate. He designed a men's cologne "Surf;" owned and operated a bar and grill on Lake Minoqua; and purchased and refurbished numerous boats at the Bahia Mar in Fort Lauderdale. Jerry's motto was BUY RIGHT--Don't be greedy, leave some for the next owner. He was unique in having friends as business partners. These special people became his family and lasted for decades. A rare form of Parkinsons (cortico basil degeneration) over the last six years slowly stole his mobility and ability to communicate.The last 2.5 years, he was cared for by Michelle and Trey in their home, surrounded by lively antics of Ryan and Nicholas, constant presence of Lilly the chocolate Labrador, and loving assistance of caregiver Pat Leager. Jerry was blessed with the highest level of loving care. Until the very end, Pat would drive Jerry to the Chestertown Marina to have lunch and feed the ducks. Jerry prayed daily for his family and especially for his grandsons. He wanted the boys to love and respect each other and bring happiness to their parents. Jerry's body has been donated to " Cure PSP/CBD." In lieu of flowers, you can make a memorial donation to www.curepsp.com. or call 800 457 4777.

Jerome Modzelewski

February 6, 1940 - May 5, 2017