Jerome "Jerry" Ronkar, Jr.

Jerome "Jerry" Ronkar, Jr.
March 6, 1943 – July 10, 2025

Jerome "Jerry" Ronkar, Jr., of Columbus NE, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at Brookestone Acres in Columbus.

Visitation will take place at the church from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, July 14, with a Vigil Service to follow at 7:00 p.m.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 15, at St. Isidore Catholic Church in Columbus.   Interment with military honors provided by the American Legion Hartman Post #84 Honor Guard will be at All Saints Cemetery.

Jerry was born on March 6, 1943, in Columbus, Nebraska, to Jerome and Marie (Gall) Ronkar, Sr. He was raised in Bellwood and attended school at Marietta. Jerry was a talented athlete and musician.  In fact, Jerry could pick up basically any instrument and, within 10-15 minutes, be able to play it well.

He proudly served his country in the United States Navy, where he played clarinet and trumpet in the Navy Band and worked as an Electrician's Mate, as well as overseeing motion picture entertainment on board. On August 31, 1965, Jerry married the love of his life, Betty Kovar, at Appleton Assumption Church.

After completing his service to our country Jerry worked as an electrical engineer for Dale Electronics, retiring in 2002. He had a deep love for hunting, fishing and golfing. A passionate musician, Jerry played in various bands, including "The Polka Dudes." Sunday mornings were reserved for listening to polka music.  He  passed his love for music on to his children and grandchildren.

Above all, Jerry fiercely loved his family. He cherished his wife who was the light of his life.  He was a man whose kindness, humor, and loyalty touched the lives of all who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Betty Ronkar of Columbus, and their children:

• Tammy (Gary) Wittwer of Columbus, NE
Grandchildren: Madison Wittwer, Spencer Wittwer and Shi (Rylee) Junk-Wittwer
• Chris (Kristin) Ronkar of Johnston, IA
Grandchildren: Nicolas (Solanna) and Sydney Ronkar
• Becky (Chad) Hissong of Columbus, NE
Grandchildren: Ariana and Keaton Hissong
• Therese (Hon) Chase of Columbus. NE
Grandchildren: Everly, Sage, Oaklynn, and Hadley Chase

Jerry is also survived by his sister, Connie (Art) Kovar of Mesa, AZ, and his brother, Allan (Teri) Ronkar of Mesa, AZ

Jerry is preceded in death by:
• Parents Jerome Sr and Marie Ronkar
• Brother Bob (Barb) Ronkar

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.