Jerry Pushko

Jerry Pushko, 66, died peacefully at his home on Aug. 31 surrounded by his family after a long illness. Born on Sept. 27, 1951 to parents John and Sophie Pushko, he was the youngest of 3 boys. He grew up in Rahway, spending most of his childhood active in sports. He was a gifted athlete and football player.
He married his wife Linda (Torkelsen) on Aug. 9, 1975. In 1977, they moved to Barry Lakes, to the house on the lake that he would call home for the next 41 years. He loved living on the lake enjoying the wildlife and the beautiful scenery. Jerry was also handy and creative, spending many hours improving his property; building two decks, a shed and later in life he enjoyed decorating birdhouses.
After college, he began a career in shipping logistics, where he made lifetime friends across the country. For Jerry, there was no question that his family and friends came first; his devotion to his family was unwavering. There was nothing he would not do for his wife and 2 daughters. The strength of the friendships he accumulated, remain unfettered to this day. Jerry was a kind-hearted soul, always willing to help a friend. He was a long time active member of the Holy Counselor Lutheran Church having served as President of Church Council, a Sunday School teacher and youth group leader.
He is survived by his wife Linda, daughters Kristen and Amanda, son-in-law Derek, grandson Dylan, his brothers John and Ken and many nieces, nephews and cousins-all of whom had a special place in his heart.
A memorial service will be held at Holy Counselor Lutheran Church on Sunday, Sept. 9, at 1 p.m. A larger memorial picnic will be held next summer at his house in Barry Lakes. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his name to Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation 99 Sparta Ave Newton, N.J., or Holy Counselor Lutheran Church, 68 Sand Hill Rd, Sussex, N.J.
The family would like to thank his nurse Marilyn Geydoshek and the staff of Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice for their support and wonderful care. A special thanks goes out to his church friends Neil Neilson, Roy Wherry, Steve Jordan and Bob Knecht who always took the time to visit and brighten his day. Lastly to longtime friend and neighbor Debbie Dinges who was always there when he needed her.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Ferguson-Vernon Funeral Home 241 Rt. 94 Vernon. For directions and online condolences please see www.fergusonfuneralhomesnj.com