Bob Rude
I first met Jerry when we were both sixth-grade students at Arlington Heights Elementary School. Jerry and I lived not far from each other on the East Side of Eau Claire. We became close friends during that time. We were what you might call BFFs in today world. There were probably six to ten guys in our group that were always hanging out together. I remember Jerry's wonderful sense of humor and his true humiliation. I hadn't seen him since our college days but it was wonderful to reconnect with him at our 50th high school reunion. He was the same Jerry I remember. He was such a GREAT guy and good friend. When I read his obit, it simply confirmed his love of the outdoors and his unselfish giving of himself to others. I wish we would have lived closer. I'm sure we would have shared our love of the outdoors and mankind. I've lost a dear friend and my heart is saddened. Bob Rude