Gerald Raymond Wilhelmy

Gerald (Jerry) Raymond Wilhelmy, age 81, of Mahtomedi, MN, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, and memories that will live on through all who knew him.

Born on October 30, 1944, in St. Paul, MN, and affectionately known by his self-given nickname, “Handsome Jer,” Jerry was larger than life in the very best way. He never met a stranger, and if you stopped long enough to say hello, chances are you’d leave with a story — often funny, sometimes heartfelt, and usually told with the kind of colorful detail only he could deliver. His boisterous personality filled every room, and his laughter was impossible to ignore.

Jerry enjoyed life’s simple pleasures: good company, good music, and his favorite Brandy 7’s shared among friends and family. He had a way of making ordinary moments memorable, often with a joke, a tale from years past, or his unmistakable presence that could turn any gathering into an occasion.

Above all, Jerry loved his family deeply and was proud to be from a family of 14 brothers and sisters from the East Side of St. Paul. He will be remembered for his big personality, his generous spirit, and the countless stories that will continue to be told for generations to come.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, George and Emily Wilhelmy; wife, Judith Wilhelmy; brothers, George, Joe, Jack, and Dave Wilhelmy; in-laws, Judith, Lillian, and Reeny Wilhelmy, and Bob Metzger; and grandsons, Nicholas Mooney and Mathew Wilhelmy.

He is survived by his children, Jerome (Sheryl) Wilhelmy, Jacqueline Garofalo, Gina (Tyler) Engel, and Justin Hosfield; siblings, Gus Wilhelmy, Kay (Vern) Bauer, Max Wilhelmy, Mary Jean Juelich, Jeanette (Dick) Johnson, Joan (Gary) Ballanger, Larry (Joan) Wilhelmy, Judy (Tom) Rogers, Julianne Metzger, and Janice (Tom) Schmidt; and sister-in-law Ronnie Wilhelmy. Proud Papa to grandchildren Whitley (George) Richey, Paige (Ja'Teh) Rozír, Abbie (Tony) Vocca, Jake (Tasha) Wilhlemy, Luci and Tony Garofalo, Jennae, Elaina, and Drew Hosfield, Salem and Rooney Engel, and eight great-grandchildren; uncle to many nieces and nephews; and good friend to many.

Celebration of life to be held later this year with more information to come.