SMG Jerome Victor Mattakat passed away at Abbott Northwestern Hospital, Minneapolis, MN on Sunday, November 15. He was 78.

Jerome  “Jerry”  is survived by his wife Jean of Amery, WI; sons Kevin (Amy) Mattakat of Stillwater, MN; Jason (Cate) Mattakat of East Bethel, MN; step- daughter Renee Kendall of La Crosse, WI; brother Thomas (Gloria) Mattakat of Duluth, MN; nieces Lisa, Sari and Lissa, nephews Glenn and Dan and grandchildren Jacob, Ella, Olivia and Kieran “Buckshot” Mattakat.

He was preceded in death by his parents Helen and Victor Mattakat, sisters Jean and Shirley and nephew Tommy.

Jerome was born June 23, 1942 in Ashland, WI to Helen (Gibeau) and Victor Mattakat. He joined the National Guard and graduated from Drummond High School  in 1960. He was activated during the Berlin Crisis while attending Northland College in Ashland, WI. He continued his education throughout his military career achieving numerous awards and commendations. Jerry’s military career of nearly 40 years brought him to Germany, Panama and throughout the US, including many years at the National Guard Armory in Hayward, WI. He was an accomplished marksman, scuba dive master, skydiver and farrier. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, reading, woodworking, classic cars and spending time with family. Jerry was an active Mason and Shriner in both Sparta and Hayward, WI. After retiring, he shared his time volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels and as a driver for Shriner’s Children’s Hospital. Many who met Jerry have stated that if you had a conversation with him it felt like you knew him your whole life. Stories of his mischievous antics will be shared for years to come.

A socially distanced visitation will be held at Williamson – White Funeral Home Amery, WI on Saturday, November 28, 1- 4 pm  with a prayer service to follow at First Lutheran Church,  Amery, WI. A Celebration of Life is planned for June 2021 in Sparta, WI. Condolences can be sent to: Williamson-White Funeral Home, 222 Harriman Ave N., Amery, WI 54001.

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to: Shriners Hospitals for Children, c/o Donor Relations, 2900 N. Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607; www.lovetothersecue.org; Three Pillars Wisconsin Masonic Home, 410 N Main St., Dousman, WI 53118.

A special thank you to the exceptional staff at Abbott Northwestern ICU for their care.

Last Update: Nov 19, 2020 6:32 am CST