Gerald A. Waak, 92, entered into eternal life on Monday, October 17, 2022 at his residence at Angelus Senior Living in Manitowoc.

Gerald (Jerry) was born on September 18, 1930 in Manitowoc to Albert and Alma (Rehbein) Waak. Upon graduation from Lincoln High School in 1948, Jerry enlisted in the U.S. Army. After completion of Basic Training, he was chosen by his leaders to enter the OCS-Officer Candidate School. He was particularly proud of his military experience and it was key in the development of his leadership and management skills. He retired as Lt. Colonel after 40 years of Active and Reserve service.

Jerry married Germaine Kanter on June 28, 1953. He began his professional career in Manitowoc, spending much of his career with the Aluminum Specialty Company, and later Chilton-Globe Products, in Sales, Marketing, and Product Development. His career allowed him to fulfill his dream of traveling the world. Jerry's business talent was instrumental in making the Evergleam Aluminum Christmas Tree a part of our culture that remains popular today! He continued his career specializing in toys, cookware, and Christmas decorations with Santa's Best, Metal Ware Corporation, and Gary Products Group; his product ideas continue to make the Christmas holiday more joyous and bright for everyone.

While his accomplishments were notable, Jerry took greatest pride in his marriage and family, and he played a role in the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. He loved to travel and felt privileged to be able to share his dreams with countless friends who were willing to listen. He was a person who truly loved people, and was able to give back to his community in many volunteer and charitable causes. Jerry was a long-time member of First Lutheran Church and served as President of the Congregation. He lived his faith in his actions and will be sadly missed.

Jerry is survived by Germaine, his wife of 69 years; son Kevin (Manitowoc); son Gerald (Claudette) of Green Bay, and their sons Kyle (Denver, CO) and Michael (Trondheim, Norway); son-in-law Brian Hubbartt (Manitowoc), along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Albert and Alma Waak, maternal parents Alvin and Emma Kanter, daughters Meredith Ninneman and Andrea Waak Hubbartt and brothers and sisters, Windy, Ted, Elaine, Virginia, Donnie, and Betty.

Jerry was the "eternal-optimist", and approached everything with a "how can we do this" attitude. He was in his element when he was around other people and he always looked for the good in everyone.

Memorial services will be held 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 29, 2022 at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home.  Officiating the service will be his nephew, Rev. John Waak.  Relatives and friends may call at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home on Saturday, October 29, 2022 from 10 a.m. until the time of services at 11 a.m. Family and friends may join a live stream video of the memorial service on Saturday at 11 a.m. on the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home Facebook page.  Military honors will be accorded at the funeral home immediately after the memorial service by the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #731 followed by a luncheon at the Harrigan Parkside Gathering Center located on the south property of the funeral home.  Cremation has taken place at the Harrigan Parkside Crematory and Chapel with entombment of his cremated remains to be in the Harmony Haven Columbarium at Evergreen Cemetery in Manitowoc.

Due to technical difficulties, the funeral service will not be live streamed. The service will be recorded and a will be posted here in the following days.

The family wishes to thank the following: Dr. Mark Herring and his staff, Ann; Dr. Matthew Gentile, the doctors and staff of Holy Family Memorial Hospital-Manitowoc, Bellin Hospital Cardiology-Green Bay, and the staff and residents of Angelus Senior Living.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the ' Andrea Waak Hubbartt Diabetes Research and Education Fund #132582644' . Checks can be mailed to: UW Foundation, U.S. Bank Lock Box, Box #78807, Milwaukee, WI 53278-0807. Donations can also be made by phone at 800-443-6162. Please note all donations as 'In Memory of Gerald A. Waak'.

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