Jerome Paul Kersten, of Peoria, was born June 2, 1937, in Beemer, Neb. He passed away on Saturday, July 29, peacefully at home at age 86 with his family at his side. Jerome served two years on the USS Taylor (DD/DDE-468) with tours to Hong Kong, Japan, and Okinawa. Jerome married Shirley Mae Schulz on May 1, 1960. He was a grain merchandiser and elevator manager for ADM Growmark in Peoria, Ill., from 1958 until his retirement in 2000.
Jerome was an active, founding member of Living Waters Lutheran Church, Peoria. He was a recent Peoria Honor Flight Veteran. After his Parkinson’s diagnosis, Jerome boxed in the local Rock Steady program as "Saint Jerome." Jerome served his Lord with his time and talents as he volunteered in many ways, including reading Sunday Scriptures, leading bible studies, teaching Luther’s Small Catechism, tending a community garden, building ramps, and cleaning up after Hurricane Katrina in Biloxi Miss., and the tornados of Joplin, Mo., and Washington, Ill.
Jerome is survived by his wife Shirley of 63 years and their 4 daughters: Cynthia Rowley (William) of Dubuque, Iowa; Lisa Ellison (Tony) of Wever, Iowa; Teresa Anderson (Scott) of Peoria, Ill.; and Dr. Pamela Durr (Allen) of Mapleton, Ill.; 10 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; his brother Jerald Kersten (Nancy) of Omaha, Neb., and sister Joyce Pasold (Clifford) of Fremont, Neb., and many dear in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Lavina Kersten.
Visitation will be Friday, Aug 4, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Living Waters Lutheran Church, 7229 Knoxville Ave., Peoria. Funeral with military rites will be at the church on Saturday, Aug 5, at 11 a.m. with visitation one hour before the service.
Jerome’s family wishes to thank caregiver Rita Gruzka, her daughter Vicky, and Hospice of Peoria for their compassionate care during his Parkinson’s illness. Memorials may be given in honor of Jerome Kersten to: Living Waters Lutheran Church, Peoria, Ill., and The Parkinson’s Foundation. To view Jerome’s full obituary or to leave online condolences please visit www.davison-fulton.com.