Was born to eternal life at the age of 80 on March 29th, 2026. Born on March 20th, 1946, to Ruth and Ernest Breitenbach, Jerold William Breitenbach grew up in Whitefish Bay, Wisc. A graduate of St. Monica School and Marquette University High School, he went on to attend Marquette University. It was during his college years that Jerry met his wife of 56 years, Janet O’Donnell.
Jerry honorably served in the Army during the Vietnam War. Upon his return, he completed his law degree at Marquette University, marking the beginning of a distinguished legal career that spanned over 40 years. His professional journey included service as a public defender and a prosecutor in both the City and District Attorney’s offices. He also served as a Kenosha County Circuit Court Judge and worked as a private practitioner at Breitenbach Law Offices, Breitenbach & Zievers, and Schroeder, Ventura & Breitenbach.
While his professional achievements were many, Jerry’s greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted father to his four daughters: Elizabeth Warnock, Catherine Reget, Helen Breitenbach, and Mary Manthei. He took immense pride in his sons-in-law, his grandchildren: Alexander Pencak, Jack and Samuel Reget, Nicholas Warnock, Genevieve, William and Hayes Manthei, and Edison Cooper and his great-granddaughter, Averie Pencak. Continuing a legacy established by his parents, he upheld the cherished Breitenbach tradition of Sunday family dinners.
Guided by a deep commitment to his community, Jerry served on and led numerous local boards and charities, including the Kenosha Bar Association, St. Peter’s Church, Kiwanis Breakfast Club, and First United Day Care. He was a dedicated blood donor, taught CCD, and spent many hours preparing and serving meals for the local soup kitchen.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, Jerry found fulfillment in weekly golf and softball leagues, though his favorite vantage point was always the sidelines, cheering on his children and grandchildren at their games. His love for adventure was equally profound; he delighted in planning family cruises, drawing on the expertise he gained while working at his parents’ travel agency during his youth.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, James Breitenbach; his in-laws, James and Bernadette O’Donnell; and his grandson, James Cooper.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shalom Center. Funeral services will be held privately.
