It is with profound sadness that the family of Jerry Volk announce his passing on Oct. 10 at the age of 76. Surrounded by his loving family in his final moments, he fought until the very end against complications from Glioblastoma.

Jerry was born with a force of nature in Mandan, North Dakota, on May 9, 1948, to Emanuel and Ottilia (Ressler) Volk. The Volk family moved to Centralia when Jerry was a toddler where he made his presence known here in town with his larger than life personality.

An avid athlete, Jerry excelled in football and wrestling, earning varsity letters. He graduated from Centralia High School in 1967 and afterward served honorably in the U.S. Army for two years. He married the love of his life, Patricia Brotherson, on Oct. 7, 1972. Jerry spent his professional life at National Frozen Foods for 37 years mostly as a cold storage manager and came out of retirement to work at Pierce County Security where he worked for the past 11 years as a security officer.

He was a man of immense humor and quick wit, cherishing every moment spent with family and friends. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life — family gatherings, BBQs, watching old westerns and spending time with his grandchildren. He was a devoted fan of sports, passionate about the Seahawks, Mariners, Sonics and Huskies and you would very often catch him up in Seattle taking his family to the ball games. Jerry’s life was a testament to his friendly nature and it has been said that “Jerry never met a stranger.”

Jerry will be lovingly remembered by his spouse Patricia Brotherson; children Sara (Ari) of Seattle, JJ (Amanda) of Centralia, Brian (Mandy) of Centralia; grandchildren Dominique, Kendall, Madison, JJ, Joseph; great-granddaughter Mahalia; brother Jim (Pat) of Onalaska; as well as numerous relatives and friends.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Emanuel and Ottilia; siblings Rosemary (Frank) Bonagofsky, Barbara Elliot, Leo (Betsey) Volk, Clara (Pete) Wesen and Ella Mae (Danny) Housden.

A celebration of Jerry’s life will be held at Newell-Hoerling’s Mortuary on Nov. 2 at 2 p.m.