Jerry L. Bleich

Jerry Lee Bleich, a resident of Lincoln, NE was received into the arms of his heavenly father on September 12, 2021 at the age of 67. He was born July 7, 1954 in Steele City, NE to Peter and Emma (Kleeman) Bleich, the 11th of their 14 children. He was baptized at home and confirmed at the Zion State Line Lutheran Church in rural Hollenberg, KS.
He spent his young life on the family farm near Steele City. Along with his brothers, he was one of the hay hauling Bleich Boys known for their hard work. After finishing Diller, NE High School in 1974, he lived with his parents in Fairbury and his sister Carolyn in Beatrice until he found work in Lincoln. Jerry worked at a variety of jobs during his time in Lincoln, among them were the Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital, Lincoln Plating, Garner Industries, Lester Electric and Days Inn.
Jerry enjoyed learning about anything military and was knowledgeable about aircraft. He could tell what plane was flying overhead by just listening and looking. He was very good at remembering dates and liked history. Jerry had a kind, caring, pure heart, and was always ready to help others. He loved his large family and was present at many family reunions held each summer in July and every Christmas.
He is survived by sisters Wilma Saathoff (Marvin) of rural Diller, Alice Warnsing (Larry) of Beatrice, Carolyn Birkman (David) of Cedar, MN, sister-in-law Sharon Bleich (Harold) of Fairbury: brothers George (Cindy) of Bettendorf, IA, Willis (Carol) of Omaha, Robert (Connie) of Jansen, Ray, (Bonnie) of rural Crete, Roy (Barbara) of Bellevue, Dale (Linda) of Hebron, Rodney (Barb) of Topeka, KS; Arlin of Lincoln, and Larry (Pat) of Hickory NC. In addition, he will be missed by 28 nieces and nephews, 42 grand-nieces and nephews, and 14 great grand- nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents Peter and Emma, his oldest brother Harold and his nephew Duane Bleich.
Funeral services for Jerry will be held at Grace Lutheran Church in Fairbury on Friday, October 1, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. The family will greet friends Thursday at the Funeral Home from 6 – 8 p.m. Interment will be in the Fairbury Cemetery next to his parents. Memorials are designated to the family’s choice.
The family wishes to thank Ray and Bonnie Bleich for their loving commitment and care to Jerry for many years. Special thanks also, to Alice and Larry Warnsing for their loving care and attention to Jerry during his final illness. The family is grateful for Pastor Eugene Bock, formerly of Diller, who was instrumental in helping Jerry to live independently. Community Alternative of Nebraska and case worker Jackie were so important in helping Jerry to have a good life. Jerry’s family is forever appreciative of your kind assistance and support.
Gerdes-Meyer Funeral Home in Fairbury is assisting with arrangements. www.gerdesmeyerfh.com