Jerry Ray Rodenberg
Jerry Ray Rodenberg
Jerry Ray Rodenberg passed away Feb. 19, 2026, in Madison, WI, at the age of 83. Jerry grew up on a 160-acre dairy farm in North Bend. After graduating high school from Melrose, he obtained a BS in chemical engineering from UW-Madison and a MS in civil and environmental engineering from Marquette University. Jerry married his high school sweetheart, Sandy, in 1965. They celebrated their 60-year wedding anniversary in 2025. They had three children together.
Hunting and fishing have always been some of Jerry’s favorite outdoor activities. He also enjoyed camping in state and national parks and backpacking throughout the country. Some of his favorite trails included the Appalachian Trail, Teton Crest Trail and the Bright Angel Trail down into the Grand Canyon. He was involved in leadership of Boy and Girl Scout troops and traveled to many places throughout the U.S. His favorites were Yellowstone, Grand Tetons and The Philmont Scout Ranch.
After retirement, Jerry was involved with Madison School Community Recreation (MSCR) as a volunteer pontoon driver and (unofficial) Madison tour guide. He was active in his church as a member of the board of trustees and handyman.
Throughout his life, Jerry was known for his carpentry and electrician skills and was a licensed Master Plumber. He was best loved for his homemade inventions: bike sail, mailbox extender, solar hot dog cooker, indoor fish farm, ice fishing shanty and numerous kids toys.
He is survived by his wife, Sandy (Schmidt); children Dennis (Julie), David (Lynda) and Julie Ballweg; grandchildren Alex (Emma), Emmett Ballweg and Madeline Ballweg; sister Darlene Finch; brother Donald (Kim); and a large family of nieces, nephews and cousins.
He is preceded in death by his father, Raymond; mother Marie; sister Nancy; nephew Thomas and son-in-law Jeff Ballweg.
A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. at Ryan Funeral Service & Legacy Center, 6728 Mader Drive, Madison, WI, Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 1 p.m. until the time of service. There will be a second funeral service and burial in Melrose, WI, Monday, March 2, at the Melrose United Methodist Church. Visitation will take place from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. Interment will follow the service at the Melrose cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to the American Heart Association or a conservation organization of your choice.