Gerald L. "Jerry" Giffhorn

Gerald L. "Jerry" Giffhorn, 80, of Waterloo, IL, died October 23, 2024, in Chesterfield, MO. He was born November 30, 1943, in Belleville, IL.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years Sonja Giffhorn, nee Brandt; son Neil (Rachel) Giffhorn; grandchildren Josephine Marguerite "Josie" Giffhorn and Robert William Giffhorn; sister Joyce (Joe) Range, and many friends and family.

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents Alvin and Irma (nee Klohr) Giffhorn.

Jerry served in Vietnam with the US Army, 1st Division Air Cavalry. Obtained a degree from Belleville Area College after his discharge and later a master's degree from the University of Wisconsin. He worked in banking and finance throughout his career. This included the formation of Columbia National Bank in 1976, where he worked through his retirement, ultimately as vice president and serving on the board of directors.

He was active in the Columbia Lions, Columbia VFW, Valmeyer JCs, and St. Louis Corvette Club.

While he grew up in Columbia and lived his later years in Waterloo, Valmeyer was where he called "home."

He dearly loved his wife and family, especially traveling with them. Pets were always cherished, and he relished a good practical joke.

As an expression of sympathy, the family prefers memorial contributions to:

Columbia VFW, Helping Strays or donor's choice

Visitation:

3 PM to 5 PM Sunday, October 27, 2024 at Quernheim Funeral Home in Waterloo, IL

10 AM to 11 AM Monday, October 28, 2024 at Quernheim Funeral Home in Waterloo, IL

Funeral Service:

11 AM Monday, October 28, 2024 at Quernheim Funeral Home in Waterloo, IL

 Pastor Matt Friz officiating

Interment will immediately follow at Kolmer Memorial Cemetery in Waterloo, IL