Obituaries & Guestbook

Gerald J. Pantel, age 85, of Sheboygan, passed away peacefully on April 30th, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Known for his quick wit, infectious laughter, and flair for telling a great joke, Jerry had a gift for putting a smile on everyone’s face. Whether sharing a story, cracking a joke, or lifting someone’s spirits, he made life a little brighter for everyone lucky enough to know him.
Born on July 9, 1939, in Sheboygan, Jerry was the son of Wilbert and Louette (Knox) Pantel. He graduated from Central High School in 1957 and married Joan Damrow the following year at St. Peter Claver Parish. Together, they built a family and raised three sons: Steve, Jeff, and Gregg.
Jerry began his career at Thomas Industry, but soon discovered his true calling in sales. His natural charisma, knack for connecting with people and gift of gab led him to Gene’s Camera, where he traveled throughout Wisconsin and Upper Michigan as a salesman. He later joined G.A.F., where he rose through the ranks to become National Sales and Marketing Manager. His career took him all over the country, but no matter where he went, Jerry made people feel like old friends.
In the 1990s, Jerry traded the corporate world for a more hands-on endeavor, purchasing and running a local Chem-Dry carpet cleaning business, known as Pantel’s Chem-Dry, until his full retirement. No matter the job, Jerry brought passion, energy, and a twinkle in his eye.
Outside of work, Jerry lived life to the fullest. He was an avid bowler and a dedicated racing fan, especially of NASCAR and Plymouth Dirt Track Racing. He loved taking long Harley rides with his beloved wife Karen, making unforgettable memories on road trips to places like Sturgis, Yellowstone, and Canada.
But Jerry’s greatest joy was golf. He was a proud member of Riverdale’s Men’s Club for over 60 years and relished time on the course with his Friday group—the Chris Braack crew. Over the years, he carded an impressive nine hole-in-ones and was still shooting his age well into his 70s and 80s. Some of his proudest golf memories included caddying alongside legends Arnold Palmer and George Bayer in 1955 and playing with Payne Stewart during his first PGA win in a Pro-Am event. In 2022, Jerry was deeply honored to receive the Northeastern Wisconsin Golf Association’s (NEWGA) Man of the Year award. Yet, what meant most to him was the annual Freddie Thiel 5-Man Scramble, where he teamed up with his three sons and one of his grandsons, Josh—a day he looked forward to all year.
Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Karen Even Pantel; his sons, Steven (Cindy) Pantel, Jeff (Cindy) Pantel, and Gregg (Mary) Pantel; grandchildren, Amanda (Huston) Sprang, Josh (Ashley) Pantel, Shaun Pantel, Alex Pantel, Drew Pantel (Scarlett), and Taylor (Allyson) Pantel; and seven great-grandchildren, Brantley, Cayson, Landon, Liam, Creighton, Cainen, and Myles. He is also survived by his sister, Margaret “Peggy” Boyea of De Pere; two nieces, Tami (Chris) Olsen and Tiffany Brick; along with the Even family, Dan (Connie) Even, Kevin (Leslie) Even and Cory Even.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilbert and Louette Pantel, and Joan Pantel.
In accordance with Jerry’s wishes, a private family celebration will be held. A gathering for friends and extended family will take place at a later date at Riverdale. The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Suthar and his team, Aurora Medical Center, as well as the dedicated Aurora at Home Hospice staff, for their compassionate care.
Jerry was truly one-of-a-kind. Once you met him, you never forgot him. Though he will be deeply missed, we take comfort in knowing he’s now teeing off in heaven, surrounded by loved ones at the best supper club in the sky. And as he always said with a smile when parting ways: Arrivederci!