Birth date: Mar 20, 1939 Death date: Sep 11, 2024
Gerard Francis Wehle, Sr., our beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and uncle, known to friends and family as “Gerry” or “Papa”, passed away on September 11, 2024, in Tampa, Florida, at the age of 85. Born on Ma Read Obituary
I first met Jerry when I was a teenager attending Tampa Catholic High School. As a young man growing up without a biological father, I found myself drawn to the Wehle family - JJ, Michael, Ellie and of course, Jerry. Little did I know then that this connection would profoundly shape the course of my life.
Jerry Wehle wasn't just a friend's dad; he became a father. His home became my second home, and his family embraced me as one of their own. From Rock Lake outings to the legendary Wehle family parties and reunions, I was always included. I can still remember nights spent with my head in a trash can, courtesy of Uncle John's special cocktails - a rite of passage in the Wehle household, I suppose.
But it wasn't just about the fun times. Jerry taught me the value of hard work and perseverance. When he gave me a job at Tampa Thermogravers, I became his protégé. He affectionately nicknamed me "Damn it Eric," a phrase that echoed through the shop daily. Jerry was the hardest working person I've ever known. He never asked me to do anything he wouldn't do himself - which, admittedly, sometimes worried me!
From cleaning oil from printing machines to tarring roofs in the Florida heat to pressure washing the building with bleach and no protection to melting lead again with no protection, Jerry tackled every task with determination and grit. I started most of the jobs but rarely finished, Jerry always finished the job. He showed me that no job was beneath him if it meant providing for his family. And remarkably, he considered me part of that family.
Jerry's love and protection extended beyond his biological children. I remember a time when a neighbor accused me of "burning" their lawn. Jerry answered the door, asked me one simple question: "Did you do it?" When I said no, he stood up for me without hesitation. Of course, as soon as the neighbor left, he turned to me and said, "Damn it Eric, you did it again." He knew the truth, but he had my back anyway. That was Jerry - fiercely protective of his own.
Jerry Wehle was more than just a hard worker; he was the quintessential example of what it means to be a man. He taught me to work hard, put family first, and live with integrity. In a world where mentors come and go, Jerry was a gift from God in my life. He set me on a path of success that encompasses my family, health, career, and most importantly, my faith in Jesus Christ.
They say that when you get to heaven, you look for those people who helped you while on earth. I know that when my time comes, I'll find Jerry there, probably working on Eleanor's car while Nana critiques his work.
Jerry, you were more than a mentor; you were my second father. Your impact on my life is immeasurable. You showed me what it means to be a man of character, a loving father, and a devoted husband. Your legacy lives on in the lives you've touched and the values you've instilled in all of us.
To the Wehle family, thank you for sharing Jerry with me. Your generosity in welcoming me into your family changed the course of my life.
Jerry, I love you, and I miss you. God bless you, and I know I'll see you again someday - just not yet. Until then, rest Dad you earned it. 🙏🏽🦾
