Gerald A. Hellenbrand
\WAUNAKEE–Gerald “Jerry” Albert Hellenbrand, 71, of Waunakee, passed away on Aug. 20, 2022, after a courageous battle with colon cancer. He was born at Saint Mary's Hospital in Madison on Oct. 30, 1950 to Leander J. and Verena M. (Greiber) Hellenbrand.
He graduated from Middleton High School in 1968, and later served in the Army Reserves from 1969-1975 with the rank of Specialist 5. On May 27, 1972, he married Kristine Kay Laufenberg at Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church in Waunakee.
Jerry started working for Graber Manufacturing Co. (later known as Springs Window Industries) in Middleton on the day he turned 18 and retired 44 years later at age 62.
He enjoyed woodworking and spending time with his three grandchildren. His yard was always filled with colorful flowers. An avid outdoorsman, Jerry loved going up to his land, where many fond memories were created through hunting and campfires with family and friends. He also enjoyed driving the open road in his Mustang car.
Jerry is survived by his two children, Melisa (Bob) Schultz, and Justin (Breanna) Hellenbrand; his three cherished grandchildren, Seth, Seanna, and Gavin; his siblings, Marjorie (Clarence) Maier, and Richard (Joann) Hellenbrand; a sister-in-law, Mrs. Ronald (Judy) Hellenbrand; his brother, Edward (Donna) Hellenbrand; and youngest sister, Marilyn (Dave) Barbian; and his close friend, Carol Rowe.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Leander (Dec. 8, 1982) and Verena (March 29, 2001); his older brother, Ronald H. Hellenbrand (Oct. 19, 2007); and his in-laws, Mathias J. and Marie Elizabeth "Betty" (Koch) Laufenberg.
A funeral service, officiated by Monsignor James Gunn, was held at 11 a.m. on Aug. 29, 2022, at St. John’s Catholic Church, 209 South St. in Waunakee. Interment was in the church cemetery.
The family would like to thank Dr. Ryan Porter from SSM Health and his hospice team (Hannah and Jodie) for their commitment and thoughtful care of dad over the years. Winn-Cress Funeral Home, 5785 Highway Q, Waunakee, assisted the family.
