Jerome "Jerry" R. Renth

In his early years, Jerry helped on his dad’s farm in Mascoutah, and he played baseball in Clinton County. He played catcher and was known by his nickname, “Curly.”

He worked at Peerless Enamel Foundry, and later became known to many as the “Taystee Bread Man,” delivering to local restaurants and grocery stores in Belleville for Taystee Bread.

Jerry served in the Army during the Korean War and was a member of the 10th Green Mountain Division.

Jerry was an active member in the St. Louis Polka Club, Teamsters, Moose Lodge, and Retirees Club. He loved to polka dance with his wife and friends, go camping, deer hunting, and playing cards. He enjoyed following his grandchildren’s activities--he was very proud of Amanda and Erik.

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Rachael (nee Kehrer) Renth and his wife of 66 years, Vera (nee Schaefer) Renth.

Those left to cherish his memory include his son Craig and Cindy Renth of Mascoutah; grandchildren, Amanda and Gheri Renth of Mascoutah; Erik Renth of Chicago; great-grandchildren, Madison and Eryn Hawley; brothers Virgil (Norma) Renth of Swansea; Larry (Kathy) Renth of Mascoutah; as well as many nieces, nephews, and distant relatives.

A warm thank you to all of the staff at Heartland Hospice and our sincere appreciation for the staff nurses and aides, Amy, Ashley, Kim and Lori of Cedar Ridge Nursing and Rehab for their help during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Korean War Veterans Association, PO BOX 407, Charleston, Illinois 61920.

Services to celebrate Jerry’s life will be held 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, June 12, 2018 at Lake View Funeral Home. Friends may gather with the family from 4 until 8 p.m. Monday evening at the funeral home.