Jerald C. Kolls

Jerald C. Kolls, affectionately known as Jerry, was born on February 11, 1942, in Harvard, Illinois, and passed away on March 9, 2026, in Rockford, Illinois.

Jerry graduated from Big Foot High School in the class of 1960, the first class to graduate from the school. He began his career at RC Cola, where he worked for 23 years before following his entrepreneurial spirit to open Illini Distributors, which he successfully operated for over 20 years. In 2002, he married Kathryn Gyorkos after sharing 22 loving years together.

Known for his quick wit, stubborn nature, and generous heart, Jerry brought laughter and warmth to everyone around him. He found deep joy in the outdoors, tending his garden, fishing, feeding the birds, and attending the Walworth County Fair. He and Kathryn created many cherished memories camping at their lot at Rock River Leisure Estates. A devoted fan of the Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin Badgers, he proudly supported his teams. Jerry also held a lifelong love for dogs; in the 1970s he showed Newfoundland dogs and competed at the Westminster Dog Show. His adventurous side led him to amethyst mines in Canada, and he took great pride in owning his 1965 Corvette.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Kathryn; daughters, Kelly Kolls and Kristin (Don) Frey; grandchildren, Logan Ford, Sarah Powers, Matti Powers, and Sydney Frey; and one great-grandchild, Elaine Ford. He was predeceased by his parents and his daughter, Kasi Theole.