Gerald Boutell Obituary
Gerald “Jerry” Boutell of Racine, WI, born on May 19, 1944, passed away peacefully on November 27, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted husband to Carol (née Hauser) for 57 wonderful years, Jerry was known for his quick wit, relentless determination, and remarkable talent for fixing anything. His legacy of love, laughter, and ingenuity will be treasured forever.
Jerry’s life was a testament to resilience. He overcame countless health challenges with grit, humor, and an unyielding spirit that inspired everyone who knew him. He faced each trial with the same tenacity that defined his approach to life, proving time and again that he could meet any obstacle head-on.
On April 3, 1967, Jerry married the love of his life, Carol. Their partnership was one of adventure, deep affection, and humor. Together, they created a life full of memories, laughter, and a bond that weathered every storm. Carol stood steadfastly by his side, a true partner in every sense of the word.
Jerry was a man of boundless curiosity and creativity, exploring interests as diverse as woodworking and baking. If something was broken, Jerry was the one to call. From inventive childhood fixes involving superglue to a microwave repaired with a paperclip and a Lego, his solutions were as ingenious as they were memorable. Neighbors and friends often sought his expertise, knowing they could count on him for both skill and generosity.
Jerry’s professional journey was as versatile as he was. After serving in the Army, he worked as a machinist and later transitioned into process engineering and supervisory roles. When those became boring, he started his own businesses. Even in retirement, Jerry stayed busy with consulting work, a short stint in car sales (earning the nickname “The Pacer”), and a most recently at Pick’n’Save as the “markdown guy,” helping bargain hunters score deals.
Jerry lived a life full of energy, resilience, and creativity. He leaves behind Carol, their children, Tammie (Bruce Haegerl) and Mollie (Joel Butler); his beloved grandchildren, Amelia Coté, Oliver Coté, Jacques Butler, and Lucie Butler; great-grandchild Daylin; his siblings, Cary and Diane Boutell, Bonnie and Ken Christensen, and Betty and Buddy Marinello. He was a cherished uncle to nieces and nephews Chris Boutell, Kim Schires, Ken Christensen, Dennis Christensen, David Nesgaard, Tony Marinello, Benjamin Marinello, and Josie Marinello.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Beverly Boutell. Jerry also leaves behind other special family and friends, and countless neighbors and acquaintances whose lives he touched with his kindness, humor, and unstoppable determination. Whether he was fixing things, cracking jokes, or offering a helping hand, he made the world a little brighter—and certainly a lot funnier.
A service will be held at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Union Grove on Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 11 a.m. Due to space limitations, please do not send flowers.
Full online memorial at https://www.forevermissed.com
