Gerald "Jerry" Panek

Gerald J. “Jerry” Panek, age 54 of Avon, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Saturday, January 16, 2021 at his home in Avon, Minnesota.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 20 at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany.

Visitation will be from 9 to 10:45 a.m. Wednesday at the church in Albany.

Gerald James Panek was born September 17, 1966 in Little Falls, Minnesota to Alfred Sr. and Mary (Chock) Panek. He married the love of his life, Diane Bloch, on October 4, 1986 in Albany. He and Diane raised a family of four children on a hobby farm in Avon. In his career, he was a heavy equipment operator in the 49ers Union. Jerry was also a diehard fisherman. He enjoyed going on fishing trips with his sons, brothers, and friends. His favorite pastimes were playing poker, gardening and delivering baked goods. He cared for his family beyond words and he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. He will be missed dearly by all who knew him.

Jerry was a member of the Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany.

Survivors include his wife, Diane Panek; children, Jeremy (Monique), Amber (Jason) Knorr, Brandon (Carly), and Alissa Panek; mother, Mary Panek; siblings, Alfred Jr. (Mary), Michael (Kim), Joseph (Cindy), Randy (Carlotta), Theresa Panek, John (Rita), James, Judy (Richard) Kiley, Richard, and Mary (Mark) Volker; and eight grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his father, Alfred Panek Sr.; siblings, Mary and Rita Panek.