Thomas "Jerry"

Means

Thomas Gerald Means, 79, of Minocqua, Wisconsin, passed away at his home on Monday, November 9, 2026. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, November 17, 2026 at Rock Island Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Unitarian Universalist Church of the Quad Cities.

Jerry was born on May 5, 1947, to Thomas and Betty (Reddig) Means in Rock Island, Illinois, where he grew up and graduated from high school. He went on to attend Weber State College in Ogden, Utah, where he studied English. He later worked for the Rock Island Lines as a trainman in Colona, Illinois, before being drafted into the United States Army in 1967. He was stationed at Fort Eustis, Virginia, and served until his honorable discharge in 1969.

Jerry made his home in Bettendorf, IA, and spent his career working for the United States Postal Service, serving as the local Union Steward, where he remained until his retirement when he relocated to Arizona. A few years ago, he moved to a cabin in Minocqua, Wisconsin.

Jerry was a longtime member of the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Quad Cities, where he was an active and beloved part of the congregation. He especially enjoyed participating in the alternative supper club, which gathered every other Friday evening to prepare and share dinner. A passionate cook, Jerry was often the group's head chef and loved experimenting with new recipes and unusual combinations. One of his more memorable creations was prune burritos, a combination for which he became quite famous among his friends.

He was also very involved in the church's summer camps in Saugatuck, Michigan, and Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. In addition, he enjoyed participating in various church trips and adventures, including a biking and tubing trip.

Jerry was a social person who loved bringing people together. He frequently hosted parties and reunions and his gatherings, often featuring time in his hot tub, were always enjoyable.

Jerry loved the outdoors and was a member of the Quad City Ski Club and traveled with the group on several ski trips, including adventures in Europe. Outside of skiing, he enjoyed fishing and hunting. He took pride in processing the deer himself and was particularly proud of his venison steaks.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Jay Riley Means.

Condolences may be made by visiting www.wheelanpressly.com.