Jerry Charles Karlik, 76, of Seminole, FL, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2022.
Jerry was born in Red Bank, NJ, to Joseph and Virginia Karlik, on June 27, 1946. He grew up in Keyport, NJ and graduated from Keyport High School prior to marrying his high school sweetheart, Patricia Burgey. He enlisted in the Navy, serving active duty for two years as a Radioman on the Admiral’s staff aboard the ship The USS Parker, San Diego, CA. then Comcrudesflot2, Newport, Rhode Island. He then served four years in the Navy Reserves as a Navy recruiter in Earle, NJ and New York. Following his service, he worked at Hyatt Roller Bearing in NJ, surviving a boiler explosion that left him severely burned.
After moving to Florida with his young family in 1972, Jerry worked at Pinellas Cast Stone, Largo and then Robinson Concrete Specialities, also in Largo as a sculpture and mold maker before became a police officer in Clearwater in 1977. He served admirably for 20 years before retiring to pursue his creative interests. He and Patty also had a restaurant on the beach called Peckerheads, with their sons Christopher and Paul.
As a young man, he learned at his father’s side, honing his innate talent, to become an accomplished artist and sculptor. He perfected his trade in a number of ornamental concrete businesses before opening Florida Statuary and Molds in St. Petersburg, FL, creating a multitude of original, copyrighted pieces, many commissioned by restaurants and municipalities.
Jerry was an avid sailor, sailing his pride and joy “Red Red Wine” with family and friends whenever he got the chance, as well as racing in Clearwater to Key West sailboat races and many others. He also enjoyed delivering boats to and from the Bahamas after retiring from the policy department, which provided him with many adventure stories to share.
Jerry’s wife Patty was a true partner, working alongside him making molds, pouring concrete, and being his first mate on their sailing trips. They accomplished their dream of traveling across the country several times, visiting many of the National Parks and some incredible off the beaten path sites. They were able to met so many interesting people and created unforgettable memories along the way, truly a life well lived.
Jerry is survived by his wife of over 56 years, Patricia; his sons Christopher (Katt), and Paul (Eric); granddaughter Danica; brother Edwin Carl-aka Gigi; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Virginia; sisters Jean, Joan, and June; brothers Richard, Jack, and Donnie.
His wit, wisdom, creativity and bad but hilarious Photoshop will be sorely missed. Heartfelt condolences to Pat, Chris and Paul.
Love, Peace
Lance Rodgers, Terri Hall
I have known Jerry since 5th or 6th grade where we were schoolmates in Keyport NJ. I always liked his sense of humor and quick wit and intellect. After he moved to Florida, my wife and I moved out of NJ as well-to Arizona. We lost contact with each other for years, until Facebook.
After seeing his posts on FB, I realized we shared a lot of beliefs and were kindred spirits, of sorts. Karen and I were able to meet him and Pat on a trip to Florida and we shared a great trip and talked about the old days in Keyport. He was a great man, a talented artist and a man of compassion and empathy. He will be greatly missed and am grateful to have known him as my friend. Our deepest condolences to the family. Bill & Karen
My deepest and sincere condolences to the family. We so much enjoyed our visits to your beautiful home these past few years. Jerry had a wonderful sense of humor and was a great story teller. We will miss him terribly.
Bill and Kelly Murray
We grew up in the same Neighborhood in Keyport N.J. Would run into each other now and then.. He sure had a big family… When I moved to Dunedin in 1980 would run into him doing his thing on Clearwater Beach as a Clearwater Police Officer.. When I worked the booking desk at thr jail would run into him from time to time..He will live on in this area due to the many pices of art that he has made..Pat so sorry for your loss of such a Great Guy.. Rest Well Jerry
My, oh my! Jerry, your love and laughter filled my heart to overflowing! I am so saddened by your passing. Our fortunate meeting led to you purchasing Boomerang, and turning her into Red, Red Wine! I was so happy to come back to the Florida I always loved, and seeing you again was such a joy. You and Patty had SO MANY beautiful trips and spent so much time traveling together- you two were about the happiest couple I knew! Patty- I can barely imagine the hole in your and the family’s heart. Jerry brought joy to so many, I’ll miss my friend… hugs to you all
Sorry to hear of the passing of Jerry I remember him from his days of service on Clearwater Beach & he gave me his business card 20 years ago which I am holding in my hand right now in remembrance !!
Karlik Family, Patty and Paul and Chris,
What an AMAZING MAN Jerry was! I was fortunate to meet both He and Patty thru their son Paul. He was such a great storyteller and made conversations come alive!
His amazing artistry of plaster and concrete work quickly caught my attention as well! He and Patty sent me three beautiful full size plaster skulls! I cherish these to this day! Patty was his equal in her determination to use her creativity to assist him.
They were always out and about! Diligent in visiting friends and family and seeing the sites and an occasional cool bar along the way!
After reading the obituary for Jerry did read the prequel of his life before I met he and Patty! INCREDIBLE LIFE LIVED! Our Hearts to the Karlik Family!
Sending condolences from Brown’s Point neighbors. We had a wonderful childhood in Keyport. Never remember Jerry without a smile or a twinkle in his eye. Rest In Peace. The Morse Family
I worked with Jerry in the Clearwater Police Department for several years, after having started there in 1979…not long after Jerry. Jerry always had a keen sense of humor and quite a mischievous streak, as well. He was fun to work with, and could always be counted upon at work. I was saddened to hear of Jerry’s passing, and I offer my most sincere and heartfelt condolences to his family. Rest in peace, Jerry…fair winds and following seas.
God speed to my friend Jerry. As a member of the Clearwater police department you respected every ones rights and were always able to tone down the retoric. You new when to have fun and when to be serious.RIP my brother.
I had the opportunity to work along side Jerry at the Police Department, and Jerry always had a smile or laugh that will not be forgotten. Someone already stated in their remarks, and that is Jerry treated everyone the same, no matter your background. Rest shipmate,….Fair Winds and following seas
My sincere condolences for you and the family pattie. May you find comfort in prayer in this trying time, he will be deeply missed. 💐
Jerry was a good friend. I always enjoyed working with him. His sense of humor would always make me laugh. I will always remember his kindness and compassion for others, especially the homeless. I will miss him. Rest with the angels my friend. Your memory is a blessing!
John and I wish to send our deepest sympathy to Pat and her family. Jerry was loved by all. He was a great guy. Rest peacefully Jerry. God bless
Sue and John Huckno
So sad to hear of Jerry’s passing. I have such fond memories when Jerry would race on Barr Robin with us and his frequent visits to the boatyard when he was a police officer. Jerry always had a smile on his face, a prank and something funny to say. What a great person and I feel fortunate to have known him. I am certain he is in heaven organizing a party as we speak. Kim Ross