Posted on 02/27/2018
Jerome D. Kislia (JANUARY 22, 1946 – FEBRUARY 21, 2018)
Jerry Kislia was born Jan 22, 1946 in Mason City, Iowa to Henry & Catherine Kislia. He graduated from the Naval Academy in 1969 and was proud to serve his country as a Line Officer on the USS Sarsfield. He traveled the world with the Navy including Africa, the Middle East, Mozambique, India and Italy. He resigned as a Lieutenant in Key West, Florida. This is where the next fun-filled chapter of his life began. Here he became an avid diver & fisherman & started his family. He went on to open Flagship Financial Services (Mortgage Company) in 1989, a successful company of 28 years. During his career he served as the President of the Mortgage Bankers Association for more than a decade. As a leader, he had excellent vision and poise. He was calm and logical with a keen ability to always keep Flagship & the Flagship Family on an even keel. He was a mentor to many in the company and the industry and had a positive impact on many people’s careers and lives. As a friend, he was quick witted and generally the life of the party. To him life was a celebration. Many of us experienced this through his love of rock and roll. Anyone who knew Jerry can recall a spirited music moment including but not limited to rushing the stage, air guitar, boogying down or belting out his favorite lyrics at full volume. He always loved a crowd and could often be found inciting a joyous riot in Section 101 of Dolphin Stadium. The wild waiving of his arms, orchestrated many a “Wave” at the games. He had a passion for adventure and love of nature. Family vacations consisted of setting sail with a compass, fishing rods & a Hawaiian sling (spear). He navigated the Bahamian Islands with his family, living off the sea and enjoying the beauty of the ocean. He always said his greatest joy was his family. This was evident in the way he lived. He was a loving husband and father. Most of his free time was spent with his wife, 3 daughters and his 7 grandkids. He will be truly missed. A Mass will be held in his honor at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church on March 3, 2018 at 9:30am. A “Celebration of Life” will be held at Jerry & Christe’s home following the mass. Any and all are welcome. Jerry always liked a good party!
Babione - Kraeer Funeral Home and Cremation Center
Address: 1100 N Federal Hwy
Boca Raton, FL 33432
Phone: (561) 395-8787
https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/boca-raton-fl/jerome-kislia-7768491