Jerry Vsetula

Jerry Vsetula passed away Wednesday, July 15, 2026 after an epic battle with cancer.  He was 85.  He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Judie, daughter Joan, son-in-law Ted, grandson Ben, and brother Joe as well as many loved extended family members.  He will now be joining his son Jay who he has missed quietly for far too long. Jerry was a life long resident of the area, growing up on a farm outside Ridgetown and eventually settling in Blenheim. He attended the Ridgetown Agricultural College and even without attending a lot of classes received his diploma. He met Judie on a blind date which according to her was not great, but somehow he won her over and they were married in 1964.  They originally lived in an apartment over a car dealership in Blenheim, and saved up for a tiny little house on Little Street, before eventually buying the house in Guilds where they would raise their children.  Jerry worked for years at Resistance Welding in Blenheim and continued to farm on the side, as he loved life on a tractor and forcing his kids to pick rocks and pull weeds.  After many years of working there he was unexpectedly fired and was forced to consider what to do next.  Being Jerry, he found a partner and started a business that went on to be very successful.  He and his partner Joe grew Spotaloy into a thriving business that employed many local people, including Judie.

Along with his strong work ethic, Jerry had a very strong fun ethic.  He loved going to the Legion to spend time with his friends, hanging out in different barns and machine sheds with buddies, and golfing.  He took many road trips to Florida to Ed’s condo.  He and Judie took Joan and Jay on yearly trips to Florida where the philosophy was we’ll go the bathroom when he has to go to the bathroom.  He and Judie also went on several cruises including a couple with some Hall family members which were memorable for everyone there.  Jerry also loved going to the casino and could often be found there when Joan needed to talk to him.

When Jerry found out he had cancer he was none too impressed.  He decided he was going to do whatever it took to keep living his life, and that’s what he did.  It was easy to forget that he was sick and he faced every challenge cancer threw at him.  He fought this lousy disease right to the very end. We will always be grateful to Dr. Tsvetkova, Nancy Gregg and the staff at the London Regional Cancer Program for the incredible care and support.  As well, thank you to the Chatham Kent Health Alliance and Bayshore for all of your help along this journey.

In keeping with Jerry’s love of his second home, a Celebration of Life will take place Friday, July 24 from 3-6 at the Blenheim Legion.  If you wish to make a donation in his name we have chosen the Terry Fox Foundation https://terryfox.org