Jerome Alphons Zak

Jerome “Jerry” Alphons Zak, 85, of San Angelo, Texas, entered his forever home on Sunday, January 15, 2023, after a hard-fought battle with Parkinson’s.

He was born on December 13, 1937, to Frank G. and Christina (Schwertner) Zak, in Rowena, Texas. Jerry married the love of his life, LaVeda Jo Hudgens on June 12, 1959, and they shared 63 beautiful years together.  He served honorably in the United States Armed Services in the Navy Reserves.  Jerry worked as a butcher early in his marriage, and as a needle maker for Ethicon for over 22 years before his retirement.  He enjoyed the outdoors, especially golfing and dove hunting.  He was a master competitor when it came to a good game of Yahtzee, Shanghai, or dominoes with family.  When he was winning, he would tell the others to “suffer”, but if he was losing, he would say “it’s just a game.”  Jerry also enjoyed washer pitching in the backyard, especially if it was against his daughter Christy.

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, Frank G. and Christina Zak, as well as his brothers Andrew and Clarence Zak.

He is survived by his loving wife, LaVeda Zak, his son David Zak and wife Denise, and daughter Christy Burrage and husband Tim.  Jerome is also survived by his grandchildren, Bryce Zak and wife Lexi, Shelby Anderson and husband Lorenzo, Brandon Burrage and wife Elyce, and Kaitlyn McClaren and husband Tyler, as well as 3 great-grandchildren and two more on the way. He is also survived by his beloved sister, Pauline “Polly” Brosh.

A rosary for Jerry will be held on Thursday, January 19, 2023, at 6:00 pm at the chapel at Lange Funeral Home with Deacon Alan Pelzel officiating.  His Mass of Christian Burial will be held the following day, Friday, January 20, 2023, at 2:00 pm at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rowena, Texas, with Father Tom Barley celebrating.  Interment will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, also in Rowena.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to West Texas Rehabilitation Center in Jerome’s name.