Geraldine J. Theyerl

Geraldine J. “Gerry” (Wood) Theyerl, 99, died peacefully at home in Waupaca surrounded by family on Saturday March 12, 2022.

She was born July 21, 1922, in Fond du Lac, the only child of Arnold Wood and Mabel (Balthazor) Wood. She was a 1940 graduate of Fond du Lac High School. On June 23, 1951, she married Orvel Theyerl at St. Louis Church. They had been married 52 years when Orv died in 2003.

Gerry worked at S.S. Kresge, Wright Brothers Box Company, Wells Manufacturing and Haber Printing. During World War II, she worked at Fred Rueping Leather Company cutting leather for Army boots, and Speed Queen in Ripon making airplane parts. During marriage she not only raised 7 children, but worked for over 30 years as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Grancare Nursing Home, as well as had several private-duty clients.

Gerry was a long-time member of the fun-loving “Chicken Little Club,” which was started in 1936 and comprised of her maternal female relatives. She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

Some of her fondest memories from childhood until marriage were spending summers at Weborg Point near Fish Creek in Peninsula State Park. She was always up for a road trip — even at age 96.  

Gerry was remarkably resilient to the ever-changing nature of life, and always planning to live; not die. She was humble and kind, with a delightful sense of humor. She had a wonderful gift of making everyone feel special anytime they came to visit. Her presence will be deeply missed, as she was always there. She truly was a gift from God. She lived the true meaning of commitment and faithfulness to God and her family.

With the help of her children, Gerry lived in her home in Fond du Lac until age 94, then in La Crosse and Waupaca with her daughters. Her wish never to live in a nursing home was granted.

Survivors include her children, Scott (Linda Hefter) of Fond du Lac, Lynn Theyerl of West Salem, Bob (Linda) of Fond du Lac, Karen (Dennis) Christoffersen of Waupaca, Mary Jo Theyerl (Terry Ziegelbauer) of La Crosse, Ron (Renee) of Brandon and Jim (Jen Sine) of Fond du Lac; grandchildren, Lori, Bradley, Emily, Jacob, Jonathan, Joshua, Justin, Katie and Trevor; step-grandchildren, Kaitlyn and Kevin; great-grandchildren; and step-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband; parents and parents-in-law; 5 brothers- and 5 sisters-in-law; paternal and maternal grandparents; 2 paternal and 7 maternal uncles; and 3 paternal and 5 maternal aunts. Her maternal uncles and aunts were like siblings to her.

“Well done, Mom!”

Private funeral services will be held. Burial will be in St. Charles Cemetery in Fond du Lac, WI.