Jerome Frederick Reichenberger's Obituary
On Sunday, June 30th, our beloved dad, Jerry Reichenberger, took his final lap and crossed the finish line for the last time. That day was a perfect lap around the track—surrounded by his sons, Mike, Denny, and Mark, and his very special friend, Dawn. It was as if life gave him one last victory lap, filled with love, memories, and the people who mattered most. Dad began his journey with his own auto repair shop, where he became known not just for fixing cars, but for his generosity and compassion. He had a heart too big for business—often lowering bills because he couldn’t bear to charge people more than they could afford. “I can’t charge them that much,” he’d say, and he meant it every time. Later, he found what he called his “dream job” at Mercury Racing, building offshore race boat engines. It was more than a job—it was a passion. His dedication and skill took him around the world, and through sheer determination, he rose to lead the department. He didn’t just build engines—he built trust, respect, and a legacy of excellence.
That same work ethic and pride in craftsmanship lives on in his three sons. He never said no. He was always there—to lend a hand, to teach, to guide. And when he could no longer help the way he used to, it hurt him deeply. Because helping others wasn’t just something he did—it was who he was. Even in his final days, his kindness shone through. A nurse said, “He was the nicest man I ever met.” And she was right. But perhaps nothing brought him more joy than being “Papa.” He loved his grandsons, Brandon and Jace, with all his heart. They were his pride, his joy, and his legacy. And when his great-grandson Chase came into the world, it lit up his heart in a whole new way. He adored them all—every laugh, every hug, every moment. Now, he’s loading up his race car one last time, heading home to be with his love, Donna, who went before him. He’s reunited with his brothers and sisters, ready to race again at the great speedway in the sky.
A time of visitation will be held for Jerry on Monday, July 14, 2025 from 5 pm until 7 pm at the Poklasny Funeral Home, 870 W. South Park Ave. in Oshkosh. A parish prayer service will be held at 7 pm. Visitation will continue on Tuesday at St. Jude Parish, St. Vincent Catholic Church from 10 am until the time of the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 am. Burial will be in Lake View Memorial Park Cemetery.
Dad, your race is run, but your legacy roars on—in every engine you built, every life you touched, and every heart you loved. We love you. We miss you. And we’ll see you at the finish line.
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