Jerome John "Jerry" Boeser, age 79, of Edwardsville, formerly of Highland, passed away at 11:56 p.m. Tuesday, April 26, 2016 at home after a long battle with dementia.

He was born April 3, 1937 in Highland, the son of Leo and Helen (Hencke) Boeser. He married Audrey Eberhart October 27, 1956 in Marine. She survives. Also surviving are six children: Brenda (Frank) Ladd of Parachute, CO, Alan (Laurie) Boeser of Edwardsville, Scott (Cindy) Boeser of Edwardsville, Sheila (Keith) Legate of Glen Carbon, Sondra (Todd) Brammeier of Edwardsville and Jim (Beth) Boeser of Edwardsville; 14 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and one sister, Delores Tonnies of Highland.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by a nine year old sister, Bernice; an infant brother, and his brother-in-law, Virgil Tonnies.

Jerry loved a good time. He genuinely loved his family and friends, but kept Audrey in the forefront of his life for over 60 years. He never knew a stranger. He played his guitar like no other, and was passionate about his music and band, the Country Ramblers. He loved to play euchre and horseshoes, as well as hunt, camp and fish. He continued his hobbies after retirement, along with working in his shop. Even during his struggle with dementia, he still charmed all with his humor, love and infectious smile.

Mr. Boeser served in the United States Army and was a union carpenter for 60 years. He worked as a superintendent for SM Wilson Construction for 30 years. He was also a member of Musician's Local 175 in Highland and St. Boniface Catholic Church in Edwardsville.

Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Friday, April 29, 2016 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Edwardsville. A Mass of Resurrection will be at 12:00 p.m. Saturday, April 30, 2016 at the church with the Very Rev. Jeffrey Goeckner officiating. Burial will follow at St. Boniface Cemetery in Edwardsville.

Memorial contributions may be given to Vitas Hospice or St. Boniface Catholic Church.

Affiliations

US Army