Jerry J. Garner, age 91, of East Dubuque, IL, completed his earthly journey on September 15, 2026, at home while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Jerry’s life, a private family Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.  Burial will be in the Dubuque Memorial Gardens Cemetery.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Jerry’s family.

Jerry was born on July 28, 1935, in Lancaster, WI, a son to Virgil and Mildred (Mann) Garner.  He possessed an adoration for family and friends which he carried faithfully throughout his 91 years among us.  Jerry eventually met and married his first wife, Janet Lang, and they were blessed with over 33 years and 7 children together before she was sadly called home ahead of him on December 22, 1986.  Thankfully, Jerry was fortunate enough to find love again and was united in marriage to Penni Morong on May 20, 1988.  Together, they have been blessed with over 38 wonderful years together and a lifetime of memories traveling and enjoying their time to the fullest.

Jerry invested his time and talents with John Deere Dubuque Works for over 30 years.  He spent the majority of his time in the engine department and made countless friends along the way.  Jerry was gifted with a strong work ethic and due to his continual efforts, both he and Penni were able to spend 32 winters at Ligurta Station in Wellton, AZ.  Sadly and unbeknownst to everyone, March of 2025 would be their final trip due to Jerry’s progressing health issues.  Wintering in Arizona was undeniably Jerry’s favorite time of the year.  He looked forward to it without ceasing and was rarely ready to return home when that time had arrived.  The Ligurta Family, commonly known as the Ligurta Lizards when out and about on the trails, became their home away from home and so many wonderful friends and memories were thankfully made during their years there.

In his free-time, Jerry was a proud member of the VFW Auxiliary Post #6790 and when it came to sports, NASCAR, dirt track, the Packers, Hawkeyes and Cubs were always top of mind.  Jerry was a quiet man at heart, who surely enjoyed the occasional glass of Christian Brothers Brandy, but once he was comfortable and surrounded by friends, his joyful inner spirit easily came to life.  Always with an effortless smile to offer and an undeniably easy-going attitude to top it off, Jerry made friends easily and was never afraid to make a new friend or experience a new adventure when he had the chance.  But, for those who knew Jerry best, there was no doubt that his one true happy place was anywhere that his family was close by.  Watching them grow, experience life and being able to share in their accomplishments and successes were the moments where Jerry’s heart really did shine without hesitation.

It’s difficult to imagine a world without Jerry’s love and light in our midst.  He leaves behind an abundance of memories now, and a vivid example of how to live a good life for all who knew and loved him.  Thank you, Jerry, for making the world a better place for all those around you simply by being you. May the Lord bless and keep you safe in His loving arms until we all meet again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Jerry include,

his loving wife,
Penni Garner, East Dubuque, IL;

his seven children,
Lynn (Herb) Miller, Scales Mound, IL,
Joe (Bonnie) Garner, Dubuque, IA,
Jeff (Sharon) Garner, Great Bend, KS,
Douglas (Patty) Garner, Dubuque, IA,
Randy (Linda) Garner, Rogers, AK,
Greg Garner, Ellinwood, KS,
and Tommy (Mara) Garner, Dubuque, IA;

his 14 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren, and one on the way;

his siblings,
Jean Berendes, Hartland, WI,
Jimmy (Mary) Garner, Quincy, IL,
Danny (Judy) Garner, Dubuque, IA,
and David (Kathe) Garner, Dubuque, IA;

his sister-in-law,
Nancy Jo Garner, Mountain, WI;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Janet Garner; his siblings, Judy (Carl) Stoneking, Donny Garner and Diane (Cal) Courtright; his daughter-in-law, Jean Garner; and his brother-in-law, Floyd Berendes.

Jerry’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, especially Chris, for all of their professional and compassionate care.

Online condolences may be shared with Jerry’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com