Jerry Goran

Treasured Husband, Dad, Grandpa, and Friend, Gerald “Jerry” Steven Goran, 80, of Fountain City passed away on November 10, 2020. Jerry will be remembered in the hearts of his loved ones and will forever be a part of the Mississippi River Valley. 

Jerry was born on May 21, 1940 to Steven and Helen Goran. As a child Jerry travelled with his Mom and Dad all over the country sightseeing and visiting National Parks. He often shared stories of proud moments of his father. Jerry met Mary “Kathy” Kathleen Casey in highschool, they spent time getting to know each other strolling through State Fair Park with Jerry’s dog Bonnie. The young couple tied the knot on September 10, 1960. Soon after, they grew their family with three children Debbie (John) Bartz, Craig Goran, and Lori (Mark) Anderson. Jerry worked long hours at Teleview Electronics in Cudahy Wisconsin to provide for his family. Jerry had a passion for woodworking, pheasant hunting, and spending time with family and friends over a cold one. Whenever the family had a chance to get away they packed their bags and went camping at Merrick State Park in Fountain City, Wisconsin. 

Eventually Jerry and Kathy purchased a cottage on the edge of the park. Jerry spent countless hours on the Mississippi River with family, friends, and anyone who wanted to grab a lawn chair and a beer, eager to share his love for the river. You could often find him driving up and down the Mississippi with his dogs and beloved wife enjoying the views and wildlife. When the sun went down Jerry could be found sitting around the fire or gazing at the stars pointing out constellations. Over the years the boats, people, and dogs on the sandbar doubled and tripled as his family and friends grew. With that came four grandchildren Rachel (Mike) Dumke, Sarah (Joe Kelly) Goran, Alex Anderson, and Zach Bartz and three great grandchildren Killian Kelly, Loralei Kelly, and Eli Dumke. Jerry and Kathy always welcomed their grandkids - watching them during the workdays, having weekend sleepovers, and memorable weeklong vacations at the cottage. 

Jerry retired at the age of 62 and soon after designed and built a cozy home on their cottage property. On a sunny morning you would be sure to find him target shooting at the range with his wife and dog. Jerry was a proud volunteer for The Merrick State Park Turtles and The Fish and Wildlife Life Service, earning volunteer of the year for Fish and Wildlife in 2010. Some of his volunteer activities included keeping the sandbars clean, monitoring eagle nests in the spring, maintaining bluebird houses, seasonal park events, and cutting firewood with his son for the park. The woodsplitter at Merrick has been named Jerry in honor of his helpful spirit. 

Jerry had a warm smile, making all feel welcome. He walked through life with pride, perseverance, and strong love, instilling those values in his children and grandchildren. If help was ever needed Jerry was the first to lend a hand and share his never ending knowledge. Jerry Goran’s hugs will always be remembered by his strong embrace and heartfelt squeeze. His presence will be missed every day.

The family invites you to light a candle with them in honor of Jerry’s memory on Thursday, November 19 at 6:00 PM. We have created this memorial page, we ask that you leave a tribute message to share your love and memories of Jerry. Memorials in honor of Jerry may be made to Friends of Merrick State Park Turtles, please see below for a link to the donation page. 

May Jerry Goran Rest in Peace among the stars.