Jerry passed away at the age of 88 on Saturday, March 30, 2024, with his family by his side. He was the son of the late Richard and Juanita (Parks) Covelli. He was born on June 20,1935 and attended local schools, graduating from Bradford High School.
In 1953, he joined the Wisconsin Army National Guard, 32nd Infantry Division 126th Artillery, and was stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington during the Berlin Crisis from October 1961 to August 1962. Honorably discharged in September 1962, with the rank of Specialist Fifth Class.
He worked as a mechanic at Shaffer Pontiac for several years. He then worked at American Motors in the engineering department. He also worked as a Quality Control Engineer when it switched over to Chrysler. In 1990 he retired after 28 years.
Jerry enjoyed classic cars and attended many car shows over the years. He loved to garden and grew his own tomatoes and peppers, which he shared with family and friends. He enjoyed reading books and watching old movies. Jerry loved animals, and over the years he adopted dogs and cats.
He is survived by three sisters, Angie (Frank) Waldo, Sara Larson, and Dodie Gemignani; and niece, Chris Oberst.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Kelly Covelli; brother-in-law; Don Larson; and his fur-baby, Sophie.
The family would like to acknowledge our sister, Dodie, for her daily visits to provide care and comfort for Jerry. Special thanks to St. Croix Hospice staff; Brittany, Emily, and Margot for their compassionate care. Also, all the caregivers at the Primrose of Pleasant Prairie, Memory Care East.
A memorial visitation will take place at Proko Funeral Home, on Saturday, April 13, 2024, from 10:00 am until the time of service at 11:00 concluding with full military honors. Inurnment will be held privately, at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to St. Croix Hospice, 8825 S. Howell Ave., Suite 102, Oak Creek, WI 53154, or Disabled American Veterans https://www.dav.org would be appreciated.
