Joseph John Jerz

Joseph John Jerz, 90, of The Villages, died peacefully on December 21, 2018, at the Mission Oaks Memory Care facility. He was born on January 24, 1928 and grew up in Illinois. He served in the United States Army before obtaining advanced degrees from Catholic University and Michigan State University. He enjoyed a long career in retail management.

Together with Dodie his wife of 63 years, he was fortunate to live and work in beautiful settings: St Croix in the Virgin Islands, Vermont, and North Carolina. In St Croix they owned a clothing and shoe store called Sun and Moon, and in Vermont they owned a legendary retail complex at the Quechee Gorge. Retiring in 1999, they came to The Villages where Joe remained an active participant in the Catholic Church. He also enjoyed snorkeling, gardening, stamp collecting, playing the organ, traveling and fine wines.

He is survived by his devoted wife Dodie, his sister Irene, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his sister Virginia.

A celebration of his life will be commemorated with a funeral Mass at St Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church on Friday, February 8 at 10 AM. A reception featuring Polish national dishes will follow at Buffalo Crossings Assisted Living facility.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Center.