Jerome Paul Wozny

Born March 27, 1945 in Omaha, Nebraska to mother Kathryn Ann Cunningham and father Jerome Lawrence Wozny, Mr. Jerome (Jerry) Paul Wozny passed away Friday, May 21, 2021 in San Jose, CA. After graduating from the University of Omaha with a journalism degree, Jerry worked in marketing and sales for several Bay Area newspapers and media. He is survived by his daughters Erin and Colleen Wozny, former spouse Francie Mullin, sisters Phyllis Heck, Mary Wozny, and Carol O’Donnell, brother-in-law Terry O’Donnell, and nephews Robert and Timothy Heck, and Paul, Phillip, and Alex O’Donnell. Funeral Services will be held Saturday June 12th, 2021 at 12:00 pm at The Lima Family Santa Clara Mortuary in Santa Clara, CA.

Jerry was and always will remain an untethered spirit and generous soul. To quote the words of one of his favorite singer-songwriters, Ricky Nelson, Jerry was a “Travelin’ Man.” Travel was one of his passions, and indeed, travel he did. Whether it be up and down the coast from California to Canada, gap years throughout Europe, or adventures from Bora Bora to Australia, he touched the lives of many across the globe. Wherever he went, he brought a zest for life and a love and appreciation for the cultures around him.

Furthermore, Jerry was an excellent chef and party host. His love of gourmet cooking, craft cocktails, and fine cuisine brought loved ones, friends, and families together from all walks of life. There was never a dull moment with Jerry at your party! By no means would he shy away from a philosophical conversation or a proper dance-off. He welcomed all with open arms, and went out of his way to make everyone feel at home.

To his daughters, Erin and Colleen, he was their biggest champion, continually cheering them on with great pride throughout his life (and rest assured, he continues to do so from the heavens)! Regardless if it were from the sidelines of their soccer games or a phone call from afar, his love and support was always present, and his cheesy one-liners and quirky sense of humor never failed to make them crack a smile.

To his sisters, Phyllis, Mary, and Carol, he was their supportive older brother, always providing them with a laugh and showering them with love and affection. Holding the utmost respect for his mother (whom he referred to as Saint Kathryn)-Jerry made a point to state to whomever he met that he was a blessed man to have such a graceful and kind-hearted woman raise him. Additionally, Jerry revered his father’s intelligence, resourcefulness, and steadfast devotion to his family.

Jerry loved his family fiercely. He cherished the time spent camping and barbecuing with aunts and uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews, and family friends. He spoke fondly of his work colleagues and Peninsula dance group-there is no question they will always hold a special place in his heart.

If not in the kitchen cooking up a storm, Jerry could be found strolling along the beach, cruising through the mountains, rafting down rivers, or planting seeds. A lover of nature, he took great pleasure in gardening- and felt at home with his hands in the dirt and the smell of tomato plants and blooming flowers in the air. With spirituality as his mentor and the great universe as his guide, he spoke often of the importance of human connection and the respect for our Mother Earth. Even with the hardships and struggles that every life brings, Jerry always viewed life itself to be a bowl full of cherries- meant to be enjoyed and devoured.

Jerry, even though your spirit has moved on and is now dancing in heaven, your family and friends will never forget the wonderful memories you gave to them, and with what great fervor you walked through life. Although you may be missed sorely, they know that you are still walking by their side here on earth, and gently encouraging them in subtle ways to continue to dive in and devour the wonderful gift of life itself.

God Bless you Jerry. You are loved by so many, may you Rest in Peace.