Jerry L. Birchler

Jerry L. Birchler, 86, passed away on August 21, 2026, at IU Health in Bloomington, Indiana.

Jerry was born in Tell City, Indiana, on August 12, 1940, to the late Andrew and Edna Birchler. He was a proud veteran, serving in the United States Air Force as an Airman Second Class. Jerry was also a volunteer firefighter with the Tell City Fire Department and enjoyed giving back to his community. He coached his sons in Little League baseball through the Moose League, creating many memories with them both on and off the field. He was a 1958 graduate of Tell City High School and later retired from General Electric in 1998.

Jerry was an avid golfer and loved spending as much time on the golf course as he could. He was especially proud of achieving two hole-in-ones, both coming in his 80s. He also enjoyed watching IU sports and following all types of sports.

Above all, Jerry loved his family. He treasured the time he spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and was always proud of their accomplishments.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Edna Birchler, and his former wife, Judy Birchler, with whom he shared many years of marriage.

He is survived by his companion of 24 years, Charlotte Smith, and her family; his children, Scott and Kelley, Brett and Kathy, Kirk and Kelly, Leah and Hamza Al-Abed, and Dion; his 16 grandchildren, Megan, Chelsea (Michael Iuliucci), Travis (McKenzie Birchler), Brennan (Andrew Peck), Brooke (Andrew Utley), Bryce, Haylee (Dillon Stutsman), McKenna, Cameron, Thea, Macy, Sami (Madison Edwards), Amirah, Ronyah, Jamison, and Ian; and 14 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Ronnie Birchler, and sister, Patsy Zellers.

Jerry recently had the opportunity to participate in an Honor Flight, a special experience he greatly appreciated and one that allowed him to reflect on his military service and the people who shared that chapter of his life.

The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff of IU Health for the compassionate care and kindness shown to Jerry and his family during his final days. Their dedication and quality of care will always be remembered.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to hospice in Jerry’s memory.

Jerry will be remembered for his love of family, his enjoyment of golf and sports, his service to his country and community, and the many memories he created with the people he loved. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 A.M., Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at St. Paul Catholic Church, with burial to follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Visitation will be held on Monday from 2:00-7:00 P.M. and Tuesday from 8:30-9:30 A.M. at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Red Crest Hospice.

Condolences may be left at zoercher-gillickfuneralhome.com.

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