Gerald E. Kopatz

Gerald “Jerry” E. Kopatz, 79, of Pound, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, Dec. 11, 2021, surrounded by family. 

Born Aug. 19, 1942 in Oconto Falls, to Emil and Olga (Pusich) Kopatz, he married Sharon (Jashinsky) on Feb. 15, 1964 in Waukegan, Ill. and they had four children. His logging career began at age 16 with Walter Leisner and he started his own business in 1967 that turned into a family operation with his sons. 

He enjoyed working in the woods, which he did until his last day. An avid hunter, he hunted  locally and abroad making many trips to Canada for over 40 years to go moose hunting and fishing. No wild life was safe when he was around. He lived for family, hunting and working. 

He will be missed by many for all the laughs, jokes and friendships. He was a great husband, dad and grandpa.

Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Sharon; four children Troy, Sheri (Dave) Konop, Jill (Todd) Volkers and Ryan; seven grandchildren; a brother, Marvin (Pat) Kopatz; a sister Arlene (Leonard) Shevy and many nieces; nephews; other relatives and friends. 

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Arlette; father and mother-in-law, Oscar and Emma Jashinsky; many brothers-in-law; sisters-in-law; aunts; uncles; cousins and friends who greeted him when he greeted Jesus. 

Family will greet relatives and friends on Friday, Dec.17 at Hillside Assembly of God Church in Gillett from 10a.m. until time of the funeral service at 2 p.m., with Pastor Paul Carlson officiating. Burial will be in First Baptist Cemetery in Pound. Visit RhodesCharapata.com to express online condolences.