Jerome "Jerry" Watko's Obituary
Jerome "Jerry" W. Watko, age 84, passed away on July 13, 2026 in the comfort of his own home surrounded by his family.
Jerry was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on November 30, 1941. He was the son of Joseph and Anna (Raynak) Watko, Sr.
Jerry will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and a man whose greatest joy in life was his family. He married the love of his life, Janet, in 1977 and together they shared nearly 50 happy years.
He dedicated many years of service to Dick Corporation, where he worked as a mechanic until his retirement in 2003. He took great pride in his work and was respected for his strong work ethic and dependability.
When he wasn't working, Jerry found peace in the simple pleasures of life. He loved spending time fishing whenever he had the opportunity. He always enjoyed relaxing while watching classic Westerns, especially those starring John Wayne, listening to Johnny Cash while drinking a cold Miller. Above all else, Jerry treasured the time he spent with his grandchildren.
Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Janet; children, Tricia (Patrick) Speicher, Scotty (Joyce) Watko and Cami Watko; step-children, Jimmy (Suzi) Heller, Donna (Mike) Brusco, Laura (Ray) Stout, Bobby (Melissa) Heller; sister, Joanne Aufderheide; fourteen grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents; his son, Durkey; and his brothers, Joseph E. Watko, Jr. and James Watko.
Family and friends will be received on Sunday, July 19th from 12-4 P.M. at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home, 301 Curry Hollow Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15236.
A Funeral Service will be held following visitation at 4 P.M. in the Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home Chapel.
Memorial contributions may be sent in Jerry's name to Allegheny Heath Network Hospice at Home, AHN Office of Development PO Box 535604, Pittsburgh, PA 15253.
Online condolences may be left at www.jeffersonmemorial.com
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