Jerome "Jerry" J. Martinka

Jerry J. Martinka, also known as “Tink” by close friends, passed away early Tuesday morning, January 22, 2019, at Oaklawn Rehabilitation Center in Mankato.

Mass of Christian Burial 11:00 a.m., Friday, January 25, 2019, at SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Mankato. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m., Thursday at Northview – North Mankato Mortuary, 2060 Commerce Drive, North Mankato and one hour before service at the church on Friday. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Mankato.

Jerry was born June 15, 1928 in Lucan, Minnesota to Herbert B. and Agnes (Steffl) Martinka. After moving to New Ulm he attended and graduated from Holy Trinity Schools and then graduated from St. Johns University in 1950. Jerry married Phyllis Ann Kraus on August 26, 1950 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, New Ulm. In 1960 they moved to the Mankato area. Jerry was in the food, restaurant, and entertainment business his entire career. Some of his many adventures included the Ulm Drive Inn, New Ulm Ballroom, Kato Ballroom, and the Colony Club. He loved flying, all sports, fishing, playing cards, Vegas, golfing, bowling, and donuts! Jerry’s faith was very important to him. He was a longtime parishioner at SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church and is now at peace with the Lord.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Phyllis; his children, Mike Martinka (Jill), Joan Martinka (John Tritz), Doug Martinka (Rhonda), Jennifer Martinka (Howard Hed); son-in-law, David Dorland; 10 grandchildren, Ryan, Amy, Joey, Jesse, Nick, Bryan, Noah, Jacob, Zach, and Jana; plus 19 great-grandchildren; brother, Robert Martinka (Diane); many nieces, nephews, and extended family.