Jerry Jerome Wedermyer passed away peacefully on January 17, 2024, at the age of 83 in WaKeeney, KS. Jerry was born on November 10, 1940, in Hays, KS. He was one of six children born to V.V. and Emma (Mumert) Wedermyer. Jerry was a lifelong resident of Trego County and the WaKeeney area.
Jerry attended grade school in a one-room country schoolhouse in rural Trego County. He graduated from Trego Community High School with the class of 1959. Jerry began working on the family farm at a young age and started farming on his own while still in high school. He farmed and raised livestock in Trego County along with working various other jobs in the area. He was baptized and confirmed in the Christian faith at the Presbyterian Church in WaKeeney. He was united in marriage to Kay Ries on February 25, 1962, at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in WaKeeney, KS. Jerry & Kay were blessed with two children, Daniel and Deborah. Jerry was a member of the Bethlehem Lutheran Church, where he served on the church council, Sunday School Superintendent, and with the church youth group in his younger days. He was a skilled horseman, talented roper, and excellent marksman. Although you would never hear Jerry brag or display any of his ribbons, trophies, or awards, as he was a very humble man! He was a member of Saddle Club and various other clubs and organizations in Trego County. Jerry enjoyed hunting, trapshooting, going to auctions, playing cards with family and friends, riding his motorcycle, and having coffee with his buddies. He was devoted to his family and enjoyed spending time with all of them, especially his grandchildren. Jerry was an entertaining storyteller with a good-natured ornery streak and enjoyed telling jokes. He was kind-hearted and had a special way with animals and lots of patience with children. He taught many kids how to drive cars & tractors, how to shoot, how to ride horses, how to fix things, etc. Jerry was a “people person” who always made time to listen and visit with everyone. He never met a stranger! Jerry always saw the best in everyone and something good in any situation. He could bring a smile to anyone’s face with his cheery outlook and great sense of humor. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to family, friends, neighbors, & even strangers without ever expecting anything in return. Jerry will be greatly missed by many!
Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Kay, of the home. His two children, Daniel Wedermyer (Laura Bryant) of Rio Rancho, New Mexico; Debby Helmer (Tim Helmer) of Overland Park, Kansas. Four grandchildren: Shiloh Wedermyer, Dalton Wedermyer, Alex Helmer, and Kaylee Helmer. One great-granddaughter, Dawn Wedermyer. Two brothers, Melvin Wedermyer and Larry Wedermyer. And many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, V.V. and Emma Wedermyer; one brother, James Wedermyer; two sisters, Clara Ann Kirkland and Virgina Hager.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Jerry Wedermyer Memorial Fund, sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th street, WaKeeney, KS 67672.