Gerald E. Plach

Gerald (Jerry) Edward Plach, age 85, passed away on October 14, 2025, after a six-year battle with mesothelioma.  Jerry was born on November 18, 1939 to Edward and Rosella (Calnin) Plach.  He married the love of his life, Judy Kimmons, on December 26, 1964, and the couple joyfully celebrated 60 plus years together.  They raised three children: Christina (Brad) Schwebs, Pamela (Tom) Oostenbrug, and Scott (Amy) Plach.

As a young man, Jerry served in the Navy as an Aircraft Mechanic. Following his service, he became a Licensed Insurance Agent, a career he would perform for 48 years.  Jerry founded and owned Employee Benefits Plans Inc. and enjoyed working into his 70s.  His favorite hobbies included hunting and getting his tractor and 4-wheeler stuck in the mud.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Judy, two daughters, a daughter-in-law, six grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and a brother and sister.  Jerry’s son, Scott Plach, preceded him in death.

The family would like to thank Thedacare Hospice, Valley VNA, and Thedacare Oncology for their loving care of Jerry.  Also, a special thank you to Dr. Hedy Kindler at University of Chicago Medicine, whose treatment plan gave us four, good, additional years with dad.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, November 1, 2025 at Valley Funeral Home, 2211 N. Richmond Street, Appleton. Visitation will take place on Saturday at the funeral home from 9:30 am until the time of service. Jerry will be laid to rest at St. Joseph Cemetery in Appleton, WI. 

In lieu of flowers, if so inclined, please make a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.