Geraldine Phyllis Zierer

Zierer, Geraldine Phyllis
(Nee Jurva)

Born to Eternal Life Sunday, April 21, 2024 at the age of 90 years. 

Geraldine “Geri” was born in Klingville (Chassell Township), Michigan to August and Hildur Jurva. She had a twin brother Gerald, was one of twelve children, and was raised on a farm where she loved playing baseball, picking blueberries and strawberries, and climbing trees. She also loved math and typing. After high school, Geraldine moved to Detroit where she worked for General Motors, but then moved back to Houghton, Michigan where she was employed at the U.P. Power Company.  In October of 1959 Geri moved to Milwaukee, WI with a friend and began work at Fontaine McCurdy. After 5 days of being in Milwaukee, WI she found the love of her life Harley, at the Jolly Tap. Geri and Harley married on July 29, 1961. They later moved to Wauwatosa and raised their family. Geri continued secretarial work at Ernst and Young, Marquette University and retired as a Group Leader from Grede Foundries.

She was a “Girl Scout cookie mom”, a member of the PTA, chaperoned on field trips, attended her kids’ sporting events, and belonged to the St. Therese choir as she raised her children with Harley.

Through their retirement years, Geri and Harley enjoyed their condo in Waterford and “snow birding” in Ft. Myers Beach, Florida.

Geri was preceded in death by her loving husband Harley and by her parents August and Hildur. Geraldine is survived by her son Kyle, daughters Jacalyn (Roger) Torres, and Traci (Will) Niss, beautiful grandchildren Megan, Frankie, Angela, Maggie and Anna; precious great-grandchildren Jayden, Jasiah and Natalia; and niece Suzanne Jurva and husband Joe Ehlinger who were very special to her, along with other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. 

Geraldine was proud of her Finnish heritage. She was a spirited, sociable, and gracious Finlander with SISU. She touched many hearts and will be greatly missed. 

Hyvasti “Good Bye” for now & Kiitos “Thank you” to all

Visitation will be held 9:30AM-10:45AM Friday, May 3, 2024 at ST. THOMAS AQUINAS CATHOLIC FAITH COMMUNITY (305 S. 1st Street Waterford, WI 53185), with a Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11AM.

Mealy-Stencel Funeral Home
225 W. Main St. Waterford, WI 53185
(262) 534-2233
www.mealyfuneralhome.com