Jerry Wemple

SHOKAN – Jerry Veeder Wemple, age 85 passed away Monday, February 8,
2021 in Rhinebeck, NY at the Thompson House at the Northern Dutchess
Hospital. Born on December 19, 1935 in Brooklyn, NY, Jerry was the son of
Elmer Veeder Wemple and Helene Stuebner Wemple. He is predeceased by
his sister, Patricia Korwan. Along with receiving an Honorable Discharge
from the U.S. Army, he graduated from Hartwick College in Oneonta with a
BS Degree, and continued his graduate work at SUNY Albany, Oneonta and
Hofstra University. He went on to teach History at Onteora Central School in
Boiceville, a job he enjoyed for 32 years. Jerry also coordinated and
directed many Onteora Scholarship Fund Faculty Shows.
In 1975, what started as a hobby, Jerry and his wife, Janet rented space in the
Crackerbarrel Country Store in Boiceville to sell a few wood stoves. This
turned into a family business that continues through his children operating
today as the Cracker Mill Hearth & Emporium in Shokan.
Jerry spent his childhood summers at his family's cabins on Brant Lake in the
Adirondacks where his love of swimming, fishing, building and racing boats
grew. He continued this family tradition throughout his life enjoying these
activities with his children and grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, Janet Pihl Wemple, whom he married on June 25,
1960, Jerry is survived by his three daughters – Lauri Kennedy of Boiceville
and her husband, Sean, Karen Wemple-Estes of Shokan and her husband,
Peter, and Kristine Kiss of Chesapeake, Virginia. In addition, Jerry is
survived by three special grandchildren – Brandt Estes, Cooper Estes and
Spencer Estes.
As a generous soul, Jerry had extended his care and concern to those beyond
his family. Valuing these relationships, he was a loving husband, father and
grandfather. Anyone who came in contact with Jerry knew of his quick wit
and sense of humor through the many stories he would share. His kind,
gentle, patient spirit will be deeply missed. We long for the time when we
will be united in a promised better world.

A graveside service will be held at a later date when it is safe for folks to travel.   The family suggests memorial contributions may be made to the Olive Fire Department.   You may share a special memory or condolence with the family on Jerry's Tribute Wall at gormleyfuneralhome.com  Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the E. B. Gormley Funeral Home 87 Main St. Phoenicia.

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