Gerald Joseph Mohalski

Gerald “Jerry” “Ski” Mohalski, age 85, moved peacefully into the arms of his Savior the morning of October 29, 2025, while surrounded by his family. Jerry was born on August 26, 1940, in Milwaukee, WI to the late Roman and Dolores (Leer) Mohalski. Jerry shared his home with sister Althea and brother Neil. Upon graduating from high school, he was called to serve his country in the U.S. Coast Guard and did so honorably in Vietnam. Jerry achieved the rank of Chief Petty Officer during his 23 years of service. During his service, Jerry had many adventures. He was stationed in Seattle for a time on an ice breaker, was stationed in Milwaukee.

It was during his station in Seattle he met LaVerne Trepanier through her cousin with whom he was serving. LaVerne was starting a move to Washington State with seven kids a dog and her dad in tow when Jerry was part of the “welcoming committee” in Seattle. The meeting was providential and approximately a year later in 1971, the couple married and blended their families.

For the next 55 years Jerry and LaVerne met each new challenge with a grin and their fortitude. They moved 5 times while Jerry was in the Coast Guard. In 1980, Jerry retired from the Coast Guard and the family settled in Milwaukee. He began work as a Director of Plant Operations and assisted in the construction of Froedtert Hospital. Upon finishing that project he went on to work at St Joseph Hospital, and finally to the Four Seasons in Shawano. The bar in Shawano was something of a lifelong dream of Ski’s to run a bar-challenge accepted!

Jerry and LaVerne travelled often and enjoyed cruises. Ski and LaVerne drove thousands of miles on trips to visit friends all over the country! For 17 years, they lived in Sun City, AZ and “wintered” through the holidays in Wisconsin. Of course, they couldn’t get back to Sun City fast enough after the holidays were finished. Jerry loved old trains and participated in train clubs. He was also a bit of a geek and enjoyed his computer club as well. Mostly, Ski loved to share stories with friends and family.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife LaVerne-with whom he would have started their 55th year of marriage; his children: Terry (Bob) Calabrese, Michael (Candace) Mohalski, John (Jane) Pedersen, Michael (Kimberly) Pedersen, Kenneth Pedersen, Steven Pedersen, Jeffrey (Debra) Pedersen, Lori (Steven) Van Landghen, Patrice (Alan) Crawford; 16 grandchildren; and 13 great grandchildren with two on the way! He is further survived by many nieces, a nephew and wonderful friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Neil (Christine) Mohalski, and sister Althea (Bob) Krysinski.

A funeral liturgy will take place on Saturday November 15, 2025, at 11:00am at St Bernadette Parish, 2331 E Lourdes Drive, Appleton. Friends and family may gather at the church from 9:30am until mass begins.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Samaritan’s Purse in Jerry’s name.

Jerry’s family would like to thank the staff and neighbors at The Heritage for being a part of Jerry’s life. In addition, thanks to Compassus Hospice for their attentive care.