Gerald "Jerry" J. Perkovich

Gerald “Jerry” or ”Jay” John Perkovich, 64, of Chippewa Falls, died peacefully under the care of St. Croix Hospice at Dove Heathcare West in Eau Claire on Monday, June 8, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and dear friend.

Jerry was born on January 5, 1962, in Minneapolis, MN, to Gerald and Jean (Nelson) Perkovich. He was raised in Chippewa Falls and graduated from McDonell Central High School in 1980. He continued his education at Milwaukee School of Engineering and Milwaukee Area Technical College, building the foundation for a successful career in the heating and air conditioning industry.

At the age of 14, Jerry met his soul mate, the love of his life, Michele Hippert. He was married to Michele on August 17, 1985, and together they built a beautiful life in Oregon, WI, until her passing on June 3, 1992. Jerry later married Brenda McVey and although their marriage ended, they remained friends.

Jerry dedicated his professional life to construction and mechanical systems, working as a Project Manager/Estimator for companies including Kilgust Mechanical, General Heating & Air Conditioning, and the last twenty plus years at Air Temperature Services, all in the Madison area. He took tremendous pride in his work! He estimated, bid and won many projects throughout his career, including the Dane County Regional Airport, Overture Center, Wisconsin State Capitol, UW Health University Hospital, and the first Epic Systems venture.

Jerry had a lifelong love of the outdoors and could often be found fishing, hunting, or golfing with his brother and best friend, John. The two had been inseparable since childhood. He was an avid reader and enjoyed old country music, big band tunes, and Dean Martin’s crooning. Jerry was intelligent and quick witted, often sharing a good joke or story. He was famous for keeping a close eye on approaching storms as the family’s unofficial “extreme weather watcher.”

Jerry treasured spending time with his family, and especially his mom. Together they would share a meal, morning coffee, or an afternoon road trip. He really liked having lunch or dinner and playing the machines with his good friend, Becky. Jerry enjoyed hosting his siblings, parents, in-laws, and friends during Packer pre-season games. He also enjoyed time spent fishing with his nephew, and visits from his nieces during Girls State Basketball Tournaments each year.

Jerry had a way of bringing people together and making them smile. He will be remembered for the friendships he built and the kindness he showed to those around him. He leaves behind countless memories that will be cherished by all who knew him.

Jerry is survived by his mother, Jean Perkovich, Chippewa Falls; siblings, Karen (Michael) Hepfler, Chippewa Falls, John Perkovich, Brooklyn, WI, and Ann (Kevin) Roytek, Chippewa Falls; nephew, Jacob (Emilee) Hepfler, Lake Holcombe; nieces, Larisa (Ben) Jones, Bloomer, Lauren (Shane) Sullivan, Chippewa Falls, and Alina (James) Luckey, Chippewa Falls; great-nieces and nephews, Katlyn, Kendall, Ryder, Payton, Braden, Lydia, Finley, and Stella. He is further survived by his good friend, Becky Rubenzer.

Jerry was preceded in death by his wife, Michele Perkovich; father, Gerald Perkovich, Sr.; maternal and paternal grandparents; and best friend, Tom Rubenzer.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers and staff at Mayo Clinic Health System-Eau Claire, Dove Healthcare West, St. Croix Hospice, and especially Becky Rubenzer, for the compassionate care, kindness, and support they provided to Jerry and his loved ones. Special thanks to his employer and friend, Tim Neitzel, as well.

The celebration of life will on Sunday, July 12, 2026, from 1 PM - 3 PM, at T & C Saloon, 8685 WI-124, Chippewa Falls, WI.