1962
2017
Gerald (Jerry) Vilda went to the Lord on April 22, 2017 on his 55th birthday. Jerry was born on April 22, 1962 in Lincoln, NE. He graduated from Lincoln High School and worked part time during his high school days. Following graduation, Jerry worked full time at Web Press. He was later employed with Concrete Industries.
On July 11, 1987, while celebrating his sister Paula's birthday at Linoma Beach near Ashland, he broke his neck going down a water slide and became a quadriplegic. First Care Home Services cared for him for many years in his home. Many nurses and aides loved to take care of him, establishing lasting friendships along the way. Jerry had great neighbors who looked after him and he loved talking to all of them.
Jerry had a great attitude as evident by his happy demeanor and constant smile. His love for family and friends had him talking on the phone daily, even with his favorite cinnamon candy in his mouth. One of his favorite past time was TV as he loved The Waltons, HGTV, Flip or Flop and NASCAR races.
Jerry is survived by his mother, Joann; sisters, Jeanette and Paula; nieces Amber Bissell and husband Jason Bissell, and Nicole Brown and boyfriend Dillon Blackburn; great-nieces Ella and Sage, great-nephew Cole and unborn great-nephew Beau; and several aunts and uncles. Preceded in death by his father, Larry, who passed on April 10, 2017.
Burial services on Friday, April 28 at Lincoln Memorial Cemetery at 3 pm. Please enter at Gate 2. Celebration of Life at his home on Saturday, April 29 at 1 pm. May he rest in peace.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home.
June 26, 2017
Tammy Mason
JoAnn and family. I just learned of this. I was one of Jerry's first nurses at Madonna many years ago, then started taking care of him through Home Health at his home with Larry and JoAnn. I had lost contact with him, probably 10 years ago or so. You know life sometimes gets in the way, sadly. But I will never forget him. We used to have so much fun. Even went to a few bars downtown together. Figured out a rig for him to hold a cigarette. Not really a nursing role there, but as a friend who had met her match with stubborn Jerry! Who was bound and determined! I'll never forget when I first met your family, and JoAnn told me the story of Jerry's accident. One thing that stuck with me, was when JoAnn said the Dr. told them their lives would never be the same.Jerry and I were the same age. And that left such an impact on me. I'm so sorry for your loss of both Jerry and Larry. Again, those words ring true. Jerry and his family will always be remember by me. Prayers to you all.
April 30, 2017
LESA KERNS
MY DEAR FRIEND JERRY I AM GOING TO MISS YOU SO VERY MUCH...I AM SO HONORED TO BE YOUR FRIEND AND CAREGIVER.WE HAD SOME REALLY GOOD TIMES KANSAS CONCERT WAS A BLAST.I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU AND TILL WE MEET AGAIN WE WILL DANCE AGAIN...LOVE YOU MY FRIEND...
April 29, 2017
Neighbor
Cheryl Carter
Sincere sympathies to the family in the loss of both a son and brother, and a father and husband....prayers
for strength each day and peace in your hearts for tomorrow
April 28, 2017
Lisa (Bolinger) Radcliffe
Joann, Jeanette, and Paula - Thinking of you and praying for peace and comfort to your family.
April 27, 2017
Joann and family, We are so very sorry for your loss.. May the Lord be with you during this very difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Larry and Rose
April 27, 2017
Pat Hust
You and your family are in my prayers. Jerry was such fun! What an attitude! He will be missed.
April 27, 2017
Lori Sup
Love and prayers to you and your family, Jeanette and Paula. So sorry for your losses of both Jerry and Larry. Thinking of you.
April 27, 2017
Linda McGinnis
I am so very sorry for your loss. Steve and I will continue to life your family up in prayer. Much Love
April 26, 2017
M. Emma Trouba
Joann, I cannot fathom the grief and sadness that fills your heart having lost two loved ones so suddenly. May God give you and your family strength and comfort. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers, With Deepest Sympathy.
April 26, 2017
Pam Glen
Joann, Jerry was a fabulous person and will surely be missed. My life has certainly been enriched for having the opportunity to know him. Find comfort in all of the good memories and knowing that he will be watching over you. My heart goes out to you. You are in my prayers and thoughts.
April 26, 2017
Jan Muldoon
So sorry to hear this. He was such a fun guy....I am a nurse at Madonna and really enjoyed him. We had alot in common....We attended the same grade school and had a lot of war stories about growing up in there. I smile now thinking of all the laughs we shared. God bless Jerry....He was a trooper.
April 24, 2017
Liz Feuerborn
Joanne, we are sure praying for you and your family. I cannot imagine what you are going through. RIP Jerry and Larry.
April 23, 2017
Thomas Stoddart
Jerrys strength and personality will live with us forever. He will be missed.
April 23, 2017
May God's loving kindness and comfort help you and your family through this very sad time Psalms 29:11
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