Gerald D. Kleczka Jerry Found peace with the Lord, on Sunday, October 8, 2017 at the age of 73 years. Beloved husband, soulmate and best friend for 39 years of Bonnie (nee Scott). Preceded in death by his parents Harry and Agnes, siblings Jerome (the late Marianne), Mary Ann (the late John) Flagge and Marlene (the late Emery) Werra. Cherished brother-in-law of the late Betty (Gary) Ewing, Nanci (the late Tom Olsen) (the late Alex) Alexander, John (Peggy) Scott, Shirley Bradley and Brenda (John Schmidt) Scott. Jerry is also survived by many cherished and loving nieces, nephews, cousins and life-long friends. Visitation at the Funeral Home Friday, October 13, 2017 from 4:00 - 8:00 PM and Saturday 9:00 - 10:00 AM. Funeral Saturday 10:00 AM from the Funeral Home to St. Veronica Catholic Church, 4001 S. Whitnall Ave. Milwaukee for Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 AM. Interment to follow at Holy Trinity Cemetery. Jerry was born on November 26, 1943 in Milwaukee and was a 1961 graduate of Don Bosco High School. In 1967, at the age of 24, Jerry was elected to the Wisconsin State Assembly and served three terms. In 1974 he was elected to the Wisconsin State Senate where he assumed leadership posts as the Assistant Majority Leader and Co-Chair of the legislature's Joint Committee on Finance. In 1984, as a result of a hard-fought special election, Jerry was elected to the U.S. Congress. It was there that Jerry proudly served the constituents of the 4th Congressional District with pride and distinction for 20 years. While in Congress Jerry was a champion for working men and woman and a tireless advocate for our veterans and the elderly. He proudly served on the House Ways and Means Committee where he worked to push through major health care and spending reforms. After 11 terms in Congress, and having never lost an election, Jerry retired from office in 2005. After retirement, Jerry enjoyed summer weekends at the family lake home surrounded by family. Throughout his life Jerry enjoyed wood-working, cooking, gardening, remodeling projects and caring for his beloved shelties. A special heartfelt thank you to Dr. Charles Weber for his medical expertise, compassion, friendship and support. Also, a special thank you to the Meriter Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program, staff and "family". In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Marquette University Kleczka Internship Program or Meriter Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program. PRASSER-KLECZKA BAY VIEW CHAPEL 3275 South Howell Avenue Milwaukee, WI 414-483-2322