Jerome "Jerry" J. Yelk

Jerome "Jerry" J. Yelk, 87, Wausau, died Saturday, August 30, 2014 under the care of the VA/Aspirus Hospice Services at Mount View Care Center, Wausau. Jerry was born January 6, 1927 in Medina, son of the late Rudolph and Clara (Jana) Yelk. On November 24, 1946 he married Alice Reindl in Johnson Creek. She preceded him in death on February 7, 1995. Jerry served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II. He worked as a Union Carpenter in Madison where he was superintendent for building of the Dane County Coliseum and also at Boldt Construction. Jerry owned Rib Mountain Bloodhounds that bred and trained bloodhounds for many law enforcement and SAR agencies across the country. In the Bloodhound Community, Jerry was considered a "Legend" as he was invited across the U.S. to consult and train bloodhounds. Jerry was awarded many recognitions for his work as a bloodhound handler but his most significant was the Liberty Bell Award by the late Wis. Gov. Patrick Lucey in 1968. Survivors include his daughter, Peggy (Jim) Berndt, Wausau; grandchildren, Kim (Greg) Moeller, Appleton and Travis (Kelly) Berndt, Wausau; great-grandchildren, Bret Olson, Macy Moeller and Baley Berndt; sister, Lucille Kleinsteiber, Johnson Creek; Sisters-in-law, Phyllis Yelk, Iris Reindl and Rosie Schmeling; special friend, Ron (Clarice) Mroczenski, many nieces, nephews and friends in the Bloodhound Community. Besides his parents and wife, Jerry was preceded in death by his siblings, Ralph Yelk, Charles Yelk, Genevieve Schmidtt, Ray Yelk, Clarence Yelk and Katherine Endl. Private family services will be held. The family wishes to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff at Aspirus Wausau Hospital, Wausau Manor, Mount View Care Center, Aspirus Hospice Services, Dr. Steven Nichols and the U.S. Veterans Affairs for all their kind, compassionate care given to Jerry. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Wausau, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com