Gerald Edgar Piel

Jerry "Smog" Piel, 83, of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, passed away on October 23, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Jerry was born on September 22, 1943, in Crystal Lake, Illinois, to Vernon and Corabell (Brown) Piel. He grew up in Augusta, Wisconsin. Jerry's strong work ethic, easygoing sense of humor, and unwavering devotion to his family were hallmarks of the man he became. On August 1, 1964, Jerry married the love of his life, Judy. Together they shared 62 wonderful years of marriage and built a life centered on family and friendship. They spent most of their married life in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, creating countless memories with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Jerry dedicated many years of service to the Eau Claire County Highway Department. He was proud of his work and the relationships he built throughout his career. Some of Jerry's happiest days were spent on Prairie Lake in Chetek during the summer where he enjoyed relaxing, spending time with family and friends, and making memories that would last a lifetime. He enjoyed softball, bowling, hunting, fishing, and golf. A devoted Wisconsin sports fan, he rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his favorite teams. More than anything, Jerry loved watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren participate in sporting events and activities. He took great pride in their accomplishments and could always be found in the stands offering his support. Jerry will be remembered for his quick wit, easy smile, storytelling, and the love he shared so freely with those around him. He had a gift for making people laugh and never missed an opportunity to enjoy life's simple pleasures, surrounded by family and friends.

Jerry is survived by his beloved wife, Judy; his children, Laurie (Rodney) Schuch, Tim (Julie) Piel, Teri (Don) Nelson, and Linda (Todd) Thompson; his grandchildren, Adam (Melanie) Wold, Aaron (Jennifer) Wold, Scott Piel, Shane (Kim) Piel, Brady (Morgan) Nelson, Hailey Nelson, Brittney (Waylon) Kelshaw, Ryan (Megan) Thompson; his honorary granddaughter Stephanie Hassemer; great-grandchildren Evelyn Wold, Brentley Piel, Amaya Piel, Harper Nelson, Peyton Kelshaw, Teagan Kelshaw, Addison Thompson, and honorary great-granddaughter Isabella Allen. Each of them brought him immense joy, and he cherished every opportunity to spend time with them. Jerry is also survived by his siblings Vernon, Linda, Lorna, Debbe, and Tamee; his in-laws, Bob, Tom, Jim, Mike, Pat, Fred, and Mary; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Corabell; his stepfather, Bill Morgan; Judy's parents, Fred and Lorraine Miller; his brothers-in-law, Paul Worley, Terry Todd, Bill Miller, and John Berg; and his sister-in-law, Donna Piel. Jerry's legacy lives on through the family he loved so dearly and the countless lives he touched throughout his 83 years. His humor, loyalty, perseverance, and unwavering support of those he loved will be remembered always.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at Sacred Heart Parish, 416 Dewey Street, Eau Claire, WI 54703, with Father Michael Klos officiating. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, November 2, 2026, at West Chapel, Lenmark-Gomsrud-Linn Funeral & Cremation Services, 1405 N. Clairemont Avenue, Eau Claire, WI 54703, and again for one hour before the funeral service on Tuesday at the church. Burial will take place at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to Lenmark-Gomsrud-Linn Funeral and Cremation Services in Eau Claire. Online condolences for Jerry's family may be left at www.lenmarkfh.com. "A life well lived leaves a legacy of love, laughter, family, and the simple truth that Jerry often shared: 'I have been blessed.'"