Jerome J. “Jerry” Kohl, 95, passed away on August 23, 2026, in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Jerry was born in Nora, Nebraska, to Jerome and Genevieve Kohl. Outgoing and personable, Jerry had a gift for fitting into just about any situation. He always had a story to tell, a helping hand to offer, and, perhaps most importantly, a determination to never give up. His “never give up” spirit was one of the many qualities his family admired and loved most about him.

Jerry proudly served his country in the United States Navy. During his military service, he received numerous honors and commendations, including the Navy Good Conduct Medal, five Meritorious Service Medals, three Armed Forces Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Medal, and a Sharpshooter Medal.

Following his military service, Jerry devoted more than 30 years to education as a teacher at Lincoln East High School. His passion for hands-on learning led him to create educational programs in auto mechanics and industrial arts, giving generations of students valuable skills and knowledge they could carry throughout their lives. Jerry also played an important role in helping establish the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Larsen Tractor Museum, combining his love of mechanics with his commitment to education and preserving history.

Jerry never seemed to lose his curiosity or his desire to stay busy. He loved working on cars and motorcycles, woodworking, and fixing just about anything that needed fixing. He even earned his pilot’s license and enjoyed flying small planes. If something was broken, Jerry was likely to see it not as a problem, but as something waiting to be figured out.

His willingness to help extended well beyond his family and career. Jerry was a longtime member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church and generously gave his time to his community. He volunteered as a train driver at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo and remained involved with the UNL Larsen Tractor Museum. Whether teaching a student, repairing something, volunteering his time, or simply sharing one of his many stories, Jerry enjoyed connecting with the people around him.

Jerry will be remembered as a devoted family man, educator, veteran, storyteller, problem-solver, and friend. His outgoing personality allowed him to feel at home wherever life took him, and his determination carried him through challenges with a spirit that inspired those who knew him. His family will especially remember the example he set: never give up, keep going, and find a way to make things work.

Jerry is survived by his children, Lori Kohl Lamer, Julie Kohl Batterman, and Jeff Kohl; grandchildren, Elizabeth, Sam, John, and Kate; great-grandchildren, Alianna, Emmett, and Maxim; as well as many other relatives, friends, former students, and members of the community whose lives he touched.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kay; brother, Wally; sister, Nancy; and granddaughter, Molly.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, August 28, 2026, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 3825 Wildbriar Lane, Lincoln, Nebraska 68516. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the church. A reception and burial will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Larsen Tractor Museum or Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Jerry’s memory.