Gerald Charles Chmelka

SUN CITY WEST - Gerald Charles Chmelka passed away on May 12th, 2015 in Sun City West, Ariz. Gerald (Jerry) was born in Pender, Nebraska in 1921. Jerry attended public schools in Sioux City, Iowa and graduated from East High in 1939. He, then, attended the University of Nebraska for two years and joined the Naval Air corps as a pilot in 1943. After leaving the Navy, he followed his passion, first in Kansas City, Kansas then in Garden City, Kansas. From 1946-2000, he worked in the cattle business -buying and selling cattle, feedlot operations, and co-owner of the Garden City Sale Company. In 1946, he married Norma (Irick) who preceded him in death in 1957. Jerry married Marolyn (Burlin) in 1959 and together they raised their family in Garden City. In 1995, Jerry and Marolyn moved to Sun City West, Ariz. to enjoy their (semi) retirement by enjoying the sunshine and spending time with family and friends. Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Marolyn; three children, Diana Herman (Robert), Nancy Nannarone (Dave), and Kenneth (Janyce); as well as six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.