Gerald "Jerry" Joseph Rokan

Gerald Joseph "Jerry" Rokan, a beloved member of the Bonne Terre community, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2024, at the age of 76. Born on January 9, 1948, in Bonne Terre, MO to the late Bill Thornton and Helen Rokan-Miller. Jerry served in the United States Army as a member of the 4th Armored Division, 54th Infantry, 2nd Battalion. He spent two years active duty and two years inactive in the reserves.  During the Cold War he was stationed in Bamberg Germany.  He earned the National Defense Metal and Expert Infantry Badge while in the service. He retired from the Union Pacific Railroad as a Car Foreman with 42 years.

In addition to his parents, Jerry was also preceded in death by a son, Michael Rokan; brother, Christopher Miller; father and mother-in-law, Ernest and Prudence Pettus; brother-in-law, Clinton Pettus; and sister-in-law, Glenda Boyd.

A devoted member of St. Joseph Catholic Church of Bonne Terre and Saint Anne Catholic Church in French Village, Jerry actively participated in the community as a member of the Knight of Columbus and was a respected Commander of the American Legion Post #83. He was also a lifelong member of VFW Post #6883, where he cherished the camaraderie of his fellow veterans.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Norma (Pettus) Rokan; sons, Joe (Susie) Rokan, Jr. and Brian (Shari) Rokan; grandchildren, Briley (Jeff Kamper) Rokan, Bailey Rokan, Sophia (Richard Pyeatt) Rokan; and great-granddaughter, Syreniti Rokan; brother, Tim (Tina) Miller; brother-in-law, Norman (Nancy) Pettus; sister-in-law, Carol Pettus; cousin Tommy (Diane) Lorinc; along with several nieces and nephews. He took great pride in their achievements and always made sure to express his love and support.

Known for his passion for farming, Jerry could often be found tending to his cows and attending car shows and swap meets. He had a lively spirit and a generous heart, evident in his willingness to volunteer for church events such as the famous fish fries.

In celebrating his life, we invite all who knew and loved Jerry to join us on Friday, May 24, 2024, at C.Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Home in Bonne Terre. Visitation will begin from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM. Visitation will resume at 9:00 AM on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at C.Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Home in Bonne Terre. A funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 AM, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bonne Terre, with Father John Schneider to officiate. Jerry will be laid to rest in the St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, in Bonne Terre, Missouri, with military funeral honors.  

If you would like to donate in Jerry's memory, please send memorials to Knights of Columbus Council 1088, 7897 Berry Road, Bonne Terre, MO 63628.

Jerry's legacy of love, service, and unwavering devotion to family and community will forever be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.