Gerald Harer Obituary

Janesville, WI - Gerald A. (Jerry) Harer Sr., age 76, passed away unexpectedly March 7, 2026, at home. He was born on December 22, 1949, to the late Marshall and Rosetta (Wilbur) Harer in Baldwin, WI. Jerry married the love of his life, Betty Blevins, on June 21, 1968, in South Beloit, IL. He worked primarily in roofing and construction, working many years for Quality Grain Systems. When Quality closed, he became a forklift driver and retired from Landair.

Jerry enjoyed watching football, especially the Green Bay Packers. He was passionate about "his rocks", or Geodes, and collected them throughout the years. In the earlier years you could find him out fishing or hunting. He was never afraid to speak his mind, and if he had a different opinion than you, he wouldn't hold back. More than anything, he cherished spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Gerald is survived by his loving wife, Betty; his children: Jerry Jr. (Melody) Harer, Paul Harer, and Julie Thomas; 11 grandchildren: Jonathan Harer, Emily Harer, Kalie (Brett) Bates, Michael (Katie Butler) Thomas, Justin (Emily) Thomas, Austin Thomas, Jeffrey (Alexis) Thomas, Morgan (Jon) Streuly, Dylan Thomas (fiancé Jasmine Casson), Lilly Letz, and Robert Snow; 6 great-grandchildren: EmmaLee Frisbee, Adilyn Bates, Rhyland Bates, Theo Thomas, Elijiah Thomas, Jayden Thomas; and has one great-grandchild, Dalayni Thomas, arriving in June; his siblings: Linda Pettit, Candus Bly, Barbara Rogers, Brad (Debbie) Harer, and Warren Harer; brother-in-law Allen Blevins, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter: Lynn Harer; brothers: Walt, Dennis, Marshall "Buck", and Richard; brothers-in-law: Lester Rogers, Bob Pettit, and Bob Blevins and sister-in-law Linda Updike.

A Celebration of his Life and luncheon will be held Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 12 pm - 4 pm at the Footville Church of Christ, 117 Church Street, Footville WI. The APFEL WOLFE FUNERAL HOME is assisting the family. For online condolences, please visit: www.apfelwolfe.com