Gerald John Sterba

Gerald "Jerry" John Sterba, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on February 15, 2024, at the age of 87. Born on May 17th, 1936, in Chester, NE, to John Sterba, Jr. and Libbie Irene (Trzicky) Sterba, Jerry spent his early years on a farm halfway between Chester and Munden. Jerry was born during the great depression and reminded us often that he was not “born with a silver spoon in his mouth”, he worked hard everyday.  He attended Star School through the third grade before moving to a farm north of Munden and attending Munden Grade School, he went on to graduate from Munden High School on his birthday, May 17, 1954.

Jerry began his working life with the Rock Island Railroad, initially on the maintenance gang before being promoted to a heavy equipment operator. In 1959, Jerry married Loretta Hess and he joined Hess Oil Company, until 1969.  After the couple divorced Jerry moved to Hebron, NE, where he worked for Lieswald Welding in Bruning, NE and then on April 21, 1971, he married Carolyn Campbell, they raised two children, Teresa and Timothy.

Jerry ventured out on his own, specializing in grain elevator construction for ten years. In 1982, he established Sterba Welding.  Working alongside his son, Jerry and Timothy built a shop at the residence to run the business. Carolyn passed away on July 9th, 1991, leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication to family. On May 16th, 1998, Jerry married Linda (Deepe) Widler, expanding his family with the addition of three more children, Tefeney, Tyson, and Tori.

Jerry had a deep love for the outdoors and enjoyed fishing on the river, hunting, and loved animals.  Throughout his life, he cherished the companionship of his many pets. Jerry, also known as the “King of the Catfish” enjoyed sharing his love of fishing with his grandchildren.  He often spent hours setting lines and then enjoyed throwing a fish fry, inviting all his friends and family.

Jerry was preceded in death by his grandson, Matthew Sterba. He is survived by his loving wife, Linda Sterba, his children Teresa Fuller and partner Darrell VanDoren, Tim (Deanna) Sterba, Tefeney Schulte, Tyson (Sheri) Widler, Tori (Jim) Hergott. He will be forever missed by his grandchildren, Christina Fuller, Nicholas Sterba, Tyler Schulte and fiancé Kaylee Johnson, Tim Schulte, Cameron Schulte, Trace Widler, Jayden Widler, Takaylynn Hergott, Tegon Hergott, Jessica (Matt) Hankins, Jacob Schmidt and Jeremy Schmidt. Jerry was also survived by many great grandchildren.

A private graveside service will be held Friday, February 23, 2024. A celebration of life is open to family and friends at the Belvidere Community Center, following, from 5-7pm.

Jerry will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those he touched.