Jerome (Jerry) Frederick Griep of Longmont, Colorado passed away on February 23rd, 2026. Jerry was, first and foremost, a devoted family man; but he was also a cribbage master, unpaid handyman, dessert aficionado, boat captain, softball champion, dog whisperer, grill master, and lawn care expert.

Jerry was born April 19th, 1956, and raised in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Jerry met the love of his life and wife of 45 years, Renee, in northern Wisconsin. They married in 1979, and sharing a love for bicycling, spent their honeymoon riding around Nova Scotia. Shortly after, they moved to Minnesota and began passing down their love for the outdoors and card games to their four children: Brandon Griep, Shannon Lee, Kelsey Traish and Colleen Bussert. Jerry may have let his kids win at what he calls the worst game ever invented, Hi Ho! Cherry-O, but that charity did not extend to cribbage, the game he learned from his parents (Fred and Helen Griep). Jerry's love of family extended to his sisters, Mary Verwiel, Cathy Truman, Kelly Strouf and their husbands and children.

While he loved the Colorado Mountains, his heart always remained in Wisconsin with their abundant lakes, Friday fish fries, old fashions and “sacred” Spotted Cow beers. Although Jerry was a devoted and loving father and husband, his second love was being a proud life-long fan and owner of the Green Bay Packers. Normally never one to raise his voice, Jerry made an exception for admonishing the referees and occasionally the Packers’ play calling. Upon moving to Colorado in 1996, Jerry’s love for live baseball led him to adopt the Colorado Rockies. While he was a devoted fan, it's hard to get too enthusiastic about a mediocre team. He and his family enjoyed many nights at the ballpark anyway.

Jerry worked for over 40 years as an electrical engineer. After he retired, he spent his time keeping a perfectly manicured lawn, traveling, walking the family dog, Bodie, and enjoying Renee’s spectacular home-made treats, especially her apple pie. However, weekend breakfasts were Jerry's domain. He was known for his delightfully fluffy buttermilk pancakes. He also loved spending time with his two grandkids, Calvin and Madelyn Lee. He cherished taking his grandkids to the park, traveling with them to Europe, and reading them endless books. Another favorite activity was spending summer evenings zipping around a lake in his 30-year-old speed boat. And, no matter what, each night ended with a tasty beverage.

Jerry was kind, calm and dependable. He loved his family and was loved by so many in return. Although we think his life was cut short, we are so thankful for the years we did get with him. If you were lucky enough to have known Jerry, you can join his friends and family for a celebration of life event Sunday, March 8th at The St Vrain from 3 to 6pm (635 3rd Ave, Longmont, CO 80501). Packers, Rockies and micro-brewery attire encouraged. In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to make a donation in Jerry's name to the Longmont Humane Society.

Jerry spread warmth and laughter to everyone, and he will be sorely missed by all that knew him. We love you always.