Jerold "Jerry" Zwiers

Jerold Joseph Zwiers, age 89, of Freedom, Wisconsin, passed away November 8, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. He was born on April 5, 1936, in Kimberly, Wisconsin, the oldest of six children. The family moved to Detroit, Michigan, before returning to Wisconsin and settling in Freedom—a community that would always remain close to his heart.

After graduating from Freedom High School, Jerry began building homes, where he became a true jack of all trades and was always willing to help those around him. He went on to spent 38 proud years with Miller Electric. His hard work and natural charisma led him into sales, and he served customers across Minnesota, Montana, Wyoming, and the Dakotas.

Jerry met the love of his life, Ursula “Ursie” Geurts in high school, and the two were married in 1956. Family was their greatest joy, and they were deeply proud of their five children, 16 grandchildren, and 24 great-grandchildren. They moved to Minnesota in 1972, where they became devoted fans of the Vikings and Twins—never missing a chance to bet against Wisconsin teams and brag about every win. After many happy years, Jerry and Ursie returned to Freedom in 1995 where they built a beautiful home. They were known for their love of dancing, playing cards, gardening, canning, and hosting unforgettable gatherings.

Jerry loved hunting and fishing—traditions passed down from his father. He enjoyed these hobbies with his brothers, children, grandchildren, and countless friends, always ready with a helpful tip or trick. He spent countless hours tinkering with his boat, tackle, and fishing rods. His enthusiasm for the outdoors was endless, and his stories always grew into tall tales.

Jerry was truly one of a kind, bringing laughter wherever he went. He lived a full life creating wonderful memories with his loved ones. We will remember his silliness and many of his famous phrases including, “I’m going straight up!” 

Jerry is survived by his children Scott (Diane) Zwiers, Lisa (Lee) Van Camp, Mary (Tom) Wisneski, and Michelle (Peter) Leschisin; grandchildren Jared (Tara) Zwiers, Ben Zwiers, Tyler (Hollie) Zwiers, Jamie (Jason) Hanuszczak, Craig (Nicole) Zwiers, Jason (Kari) Zwiers, Eric (Stephanie) Zwiers, Trisha (Gunnar) Witthuhn, Matt (Danielle) Van Camp, Sarah Van Camp, Lyndsey (Randy) Wills, Jordan (Bridget) Wisneski, Jack Leschisin, Aaron Leschisin, and Abigail Leschisin; 24 great-grandchildren; siblings Irene Gerrits, Lawrence (Mary) Zwiers, Tony (Barb) Zwiers, and Carl (Mary) Zwiers; and brother and sisters-in-law Janice Zwiers and Joe (Shirley) Geurts.  

He was preceded in death by his wife Ursula Zwiers, son John Zwiers, grandson Kyle Van Camp, parents Carl and Francis Zwiers, brother Richard Zwiers, father and mother-in-law, Albert and Mary Geurts, brothers and sisters-in-law, Ivo (Mary) Geurts, John Geurts, Marge (Joe) Rosenberg, Mae (Jack) Schommer, and Eileen (Ralph) Weins.

We are deeply grateful to the caregivers and staff at Ballard Glenn and St. Croix Hospice for the care, compassion, and dignity they gave Jerry. They helped bring comfort and brightened his days. We will always be thankful for the warmth they showed him - and us.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at St. Nicholas Catholic Church, N4086 County Road E, Freedom, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass at 1:00 p.m. Interment will be held in the parish cemetery. For online condolences, please visit www.verkuilenfh.com.

Livestreaming available at https://www.youtube.com/@stnicholasfreedom

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Nicholas Catholic Church, N4086 County Road E, Freedom, WI 54130 or www.stnicholasfreedom.org