Jerome “Jerry” M. McNamara Sr., 96, formerly of Kenosha, late of Frankin, WI passed away peacefully Saturday, September 6, 2025 at New Perspective in Franklin.
He was born on August 28, 1929 to the late James Grover and Etta Rose (Fonk) McNamara in Kenosha. He was educated in the schools of Kenosha and graduated from Mary D. Bradford High School in 1947. Jerry entered the US Army in August of 1948, serving one year active duty and then six years inactive duty and was honorably discharged. He received his OD from the Illinois College of Optometry in 1955.
Jerry married Gertrude L. Becker on September 6, 1952 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. She preceded him in death on July 22, 2004.
Jerry owned and operated his optometry practice for 40 years on the South side of Milwaukee, retiring in 1998. Jerry was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, most recently St. Peter’s Parish, and a member of the Danish Brotherhood Lodge #14. Jerry enjoyed playing bridge and cribbage and, in his younger years, golfing and traveling. He was also an avid Bucks, Packer and Brewer fan.
Jerry is survived by: his sons Jerome (Barbara) McNamara, Jr., of Franklin and Patrick (Renee) McNamara of Greendale; his grandchildren: Jon, Michael, Shane and Cory; his great grandchildren: Lyla, Wren, Charlie, Oaklyn, Cora, Cadience, Claire and Alden; and his brothers-in-law: James (Linda) Becker and Rudy (Jean) Becker, both of Kenosha.
He is preceded in death by a granddaughter Kaitlyn McNamara and three siblings: Donald, Katherine and Elizabeth.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Jerry will be held on Monday, September 15th at 11:00AM at St. Mary’s Catholic Church (corner of 73rd St. and 39th Ave.). Interment with Full Military Honors will follow at St. James Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Monday from 10:00AM until the time of Mass at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials would be appreciated to a charity of one’s choice.
The family would like to thank his caregivers, Brooke and Angela, at New Perspective and his Hospice nurse, Karen, for their loving and compassionate care given to Jerry.