Jerry C. Jolley, 74, was surrounded by his loving family when he passed away about noon on Saturday, July 1, 2023 at his home.
On September 29, 1948, Jerry was born in LaPorte, the treasured son of George C and Virginia Doty Jolley. As the oldest he grew up with a younger sister Connie. He graduated from Rolling Prairie High School with the class of 1967. Soon thereafter, Jerry served our country with the United States Coast Guard. He had stints in Honolulu, Bangkok, Vietnam and Miami and was honorably discharged on June 21, 1971. Among his decorations are National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with one Bronze Star, Coast Guard Achievement Medal and Republic of Vietnam campaign Medal with Device.
On October 11, 1969, Jerry married the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Karen A. Turak. They enjoyed over 53 years of life's adventures. From their union came three wonderful children Larry, Sharon and Shawn. The family tree continued to grow with the added blessings of seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Following Jerry's return stateside, he entered the Indiana law Enforcement Academy near Plainfield to concentrate on his life dream of becoming an Indiana State Trooper. Following his graduation from the Academy, the Jolley family moved to Fulton County where he was assigned for duty as a trooper in 1972. Jerry loved his community and served our county until his retirement in 1992 known as Master Trooper Jerry C Jolley. His final stint of service with the City of Rochester as our building inspector.
As a member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles # 852, Jerry served as president of the group and ascended to the level of golden Eagle. His other memberships included Scottish Rite and Mizpah Shine both of Ft. Wayne, LeRoy Shelton American Legion Post # 36, Manitou VFW both of Rochester, and the F & AM Masonic Lodge.
A master chef, Jerry was a well known catering professional always available to roast the perfect hog and prepared the delicious, savory sides. Another specialty was his fried chicken. Over the years he planted a truck patch garden annually and raised calves, chicken and pigs that his family and special friends could enjoy the harvest and varieties of meat.
As an accomplished outdoorsman, Jerry could be seen wandering the woods hunting deer, rabbit and squirrel. He also enjoyed fishing on the sparkling waters of Lake Manitou and joined in with his fellow Shriners to fish during regional expeditions.
