Jerome Berchem

Jerome A. Berchem Waterford - Jerome A Berchem, 71, Passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on January 9, 2015 at Wheaton Franciscan All Saints Medical Center. He was born on December 4, 1943 to Leonard and Nancy (nee Matranga) Berchem in Racine. Jerry graduated from St. Catherine's High School in 1962. He proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1962 - 1966. He was united in marriage to Kathryn (nee Kressig) on May 4, 1968. He was a computer programmer at First National Bank in Racine (now Chase), Merkts Cheese in Bristol, and Centaur Forge in Burlington. Jerry retired in 2005 to spend more time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He rarely missed a sporting event the grandchildren were involved. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, bowling, playing cards, and his most enjoyable pastime; "the casino". Beloved husband of Kathryn Berchem for 46 years. Loving father of Mary (Jerry) Werth. Proud grandfather of Austin, Stephanie, Hunter, Keegan, and Chase. Dear brother of Kathleen (Harry) Swiatek and brother-in-law of Michael (Sandi) Kressig. Further survived by other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by his son Glenn, and his parents. A visitation will be held Thursday, January 15, from 9:00am - 10:45am at St. Thomas Aquinas Church. 305 S. 1st St. Waterford. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00AM. Interment West Lawn Memorial Park in Racine.