Joseph "Jerry" Ryan

Joseph Gerald “Jerry” Ryan, 90, son of the late Timothy and Clara (Kersten) Ryan, passed away Tuesday, March 9, 2010. He was born March 29, 1919. Following education at St. John the Evangelist Elementary School and St. Norbert High School, he received his BA degree from St. Norbert College in 1941. Jerry served in the Armed Forces with the Rainbow Division in World War II as a surgical technician. After discharge he earned a M.Ed. degree from Marquette University. He worked for West Bend Aluminum in personnel administration and retired from the State of Wisconsin Division of Vocational Rehabilitation in 1981. A lifelong organist, he played for priest ordinations for many years. He acquired the old St. Francis Xavier Cathedral four-manual organ console and re-installed it in his home with pipes from various other organs to create his own twenty-rank pipe organ with two octaves of chimes. Jerry delighted in playing for visitors, often shaking the rafters and his guests! He married Phyllis Pauly on September 21, 1979. She was the love of his life, and they spent many happy years traveling and enjoying life. Jerry is survived by his stepdaughter, Marilyn Heipp and nine step-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by Phyllis and his stepson, Lee Pauly. Family and friends may call at Resurrection Catholic Church, 333 Hilltop Dr., Allouez, on Wednesday from 3:00p.m. to 4:00p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 4:00p.m. at the church with Bishop Robert Morneau officiating and Deacon Tim Reilly assisting. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Cotter Funeral Home, De Pere, is assisting with arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.cotterfuneralhome.com.