Jerome Henry Kalkwarf was born Dec. 23, 1942, in Crete. Following a substantial medical incident on Sept. 11, Jerome spent his final days at The Independence Houses – Coddington, surrounded by family and friends. He died peacefully on Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025.
Jerome married the love of his life, Donna (Reetz) Kalkwarf on Nov. 29, 1964, and they celebrated 53 years of marriage before Donna’s death related to Alzheimer’s. After working his early years at John Deere, Jerome spent most of his career in the auto industry, first as truck parts manager at DuTeau Chevrolet in Lincoln and then as a leading salesman in Crete at Jack Keef Motors / Rasmussen Motors / Sid Dillon. He retired in 2020 with more than 3,000 auto sales.
Retirement did not equal an idle lifestyle. Jerome was often seen around town drinking coffee with friends and running errands for others. Always willing to help, Jerome was a frequent blood donor and was recognized by the American Red Cross for achieving the 17-gallon mark. He stayed active on his rural property, clearing brush and trees with his buddy “John,” his rebuilt green tractor. The pair had a great relationship – as long as John kept running efficiently.
Jerome was baptized on May 16, 1943, in Crete and confirmed his faith at St. John’s Lutheran Church on April 11, 1965. He served in the Army National Guard from May 1964 through December 1969 and was recognized for his marksmanship, earning Expert Badges in Rifle Bar and Carbine Bar.
While we are saddened by his absence, we were blessed to have several weeks with him after his heart arrythmia on Sept. 11 and are comforted by God’s peace and eternal grace. Jerome lived an amazing 82+ years and this world was blessed to have his joyful presence and inspirational impact.
Jerome is survived by his son, Ron; son and daughter-in-law, Greg and Kirsta Kalkwarf; grandson, Bryce and granddaughter, Teagan; brother and sister-in-law, Roger and Susie Kalkwarf; brother and sister-in-law, Rod and Donna Kalkwarf; sister-in-law, Jean Kalkwarf; sisters- and brothers-in-law, Janice Reetz, Shirley and Elmer Reetz, Jolene Reetz, Betty Reetz, Janice and Allan Reetz; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Jerome was preceded in death by his parents, Helen and Edwin Kalkwarf; wife, Donna Kalkwarf; brother, Gary Kalkwarf; brother and sister-in-law, Larry and Lenora Kalkwarf; brothers- and sisters-in-law: Clarence Reetz, Lavern Reetz, Roger Reetz, Gerald Reetz, Dale and Dianne Kouba, Robert and Gloria Woodruff.
Visitation will be at Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete on Friday, Nov. 7, from 5 to 7 p.m. The funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, November 8, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Kramer with interment at 1 p.m. Saturday at Lincoln Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to St. John’s Lutheran Church or the Crete Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue.
Arrangements by Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete.
