Gerald "Jerry" L. Kritenbrink

Jerry was born on December 13, 1943, to Robert and Laurine (Schauland) Kritenbrink. He attended Sacred Heart Grade School, graduated from Papillion High School in 1962, and continued his education at the University of Nebraska at Omaha for two years. Joined the National Guard and served for 6 years.

Jerry dedicated 55 years of his career to Tandy Leather Company. He often said the most rewarding part of his job was teaching leathercraft to schoolchildren and sharing his passion with others. After retiring, he started Paradise Garden and Produce, where he continued doing what he loved most—gardening and sharing the fruits of his labor. He especially enjoyed canning homemade salsa, jams, and pickles.

A man of deep faith and unwavering integrity, Jerry lived life to the fullest and was known as a man of his word. His family and friends were the center of his life, and he treasured every moment spent with them.

Jerry had many passions. He loved country music, especially Elvis Presley, and was an enthusiastic fan of Husker football and girls' volleyball. He enjoyed traveling, visiting farmers markets, making homemade noodles, completing puzzles, and spending time in his backyard garden, which he lovingly referred to as his "Paradise on Earth." One of his most cherished traditions was giving each of his grandchildren a framed puzzle as a special keepsake and reminder of his love.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Laurine (Schauland) Kritenbrink; his grandparents, Leo and Elsie Schauland and Barney and Margaret Kritenbrink; his sister, Doris Buchholz; his brothers, Robert and Roger Kritenbrink; his brother-in-law, Dean Buchholz; his sisters-in-law, Mary Ann Kritenbrink and Denise Daup; and his parents-in-law, Richard and Lorraine Daup.

He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Kandis Kritenbrink; his children, Michelle (Rich) Giese, Mike Kritenbrink, Melissa (Ron) Ridgeway, and Mark Kritenbrink; and his cherished grandchildren, Carlie and Kobe Kritenbrink; Michaela, Mackenzie, and Madison Giese; and Kameryn, Caden, and Kenley Kritenbrink. He is also survived by his sisters, Darlene Drefs and Carole (Jim) Neuvirth; his sisters-in-law, Lisa (Dan) Erxleben and Sandee Kritenbrink; his brother-in-law, Rick (Kathy) Daup; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the physicians and staff at Nebraska Cancer Specialists and St. Croix Hospice for the exceptional compassion, care, and support they provided Jerry throughout his cancer journey.

Jerry's kindness, generosity, faith, and love for his family will be remembered always. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and in the beautiful "Paradise on Earth" he created for those he loved.