Jerry “Knobby” Vail, 90, of Fort Atkinson, passed away on May 28, 2026, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison following a brief illness.

He was born on December 17, 1935, in Fort Atkinson, son of the late Kenneth and Beulah (Freeman) Vail.

After graduating from Fort High in 1953, he married the love of his life Penny Maas on August 31, 1957. She preceded him in death on March 11, 2015.

He worked for Hartwig’s Poultry till his retirement. He also owned his own roofing business and worked for LaVigne Bus Co. driving van.

Knobby was a talented athlete who loved all sports, especially baseball. He was known as a talented left-handed batter and coached and managed the Hebron Hornets. He played softball, coached Little League and was an umpire for 30 years.

He loved time at his cabin up north in Sprague where he enjoyed hunting, fishing and the outdoors with friends and family. He was an avid card player at the North Shore Euchre Club in the man cave.

He will be remembered for his sense of humor, his love of sweets and the love he had for his family and friends.

Jerry is survived by his daughter, Jill Vail (Terry); grandchildren, Ryan Vail, Angela Cavazos, Stephen Cavazos, and Melanie Powel (Chris); several great grandchildren; sister, Donna Doeberiener and sisters-in-law, Betty Vail and Vicki (Steve) Hedden. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Connie Vail; son, Gary Vail; brother, Doug Vail and sister, Joyce Vail (Fields).

A memorial visitation will be held from 9 AM to 11 AM on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Dunlap Memorial Home in Fort Atkinson.

A celebration of life will follow at Rock River Lanes in Fort Atkinson for both Jerry and Gary from 1 PM to 3 PM.

www.DunlapMemorialHome.com

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