Gerald "Jerry" Blashka, age 78, a resident of Manitowoc, entered eternal life early Wednesday morning, January 22, 2020 at the family residence.

Jerry was born on November 1, 1941 in Manitowoc. He was the son of the late Cyril and Viola Ruchhoeft Blashka.  Jerry served his country with the United States Army.  After his honorable discharge he was employed with Manitowoc Cranes from where he retired.  On September 1, 1979 he married Cynthia Frolick in Manitowoc.  He was a member of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Newton.  Jerry was also a member of the Machinist Local Union #516.  He enjoyed working in his garage.

He is survived by his wife, Cindy, two sons, Tom (Denise) Blashka, Manitowoc, and Jamie Frolick, Cleveland, OH; one daughter, Jennifer Colburn, Marshall; five grandchildren, two brothers: Paul (Louise) Blashka and Dick (Mary) Blashka both of Manitowoc; nieces, nephews along with other relatives and friends.  He was preceded in death by his father and mother, father-in-law and mother-in-law, one son, David Blashka and one sister, Lois Rogacki.

Memorial services will be held 11 a.m. on Tuesday, January 28, 2020 at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 8100 Brunner Road, Newton.  The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Rev. Dave Beaudry.  Relatives and friends may call at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church on Tuesday from 9 a.m. until the time of services at 11 a.m.  Military rites will be accorded at the church following the funeral by the AMVETS Post #99.  Cremation has taken place at the Harrigan Parkside Crematory and Chapel in Manitowoc.  Online condolences to the family may be sent to www.harriganparksidefuneralhome

The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11 ^th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.