Jerry Meislik, 77

Jerry "JIR" Meislik, 77, passed peacefully away Sept. 28, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Czechoslovakia to Sigmund and Bella Meislik. He immigrated to the United States when he was very young. He met his soulmate Rhona while in medical school and they were married in 1970. They had 54 and a half loving and wonderful years together. He leaves behind his devoted wife Rhona, his "honorary children" Ben and Kat DeVall as well as his cherished granddaughter Addison DeVall. Jerry and Addi had a very special relationship and after she named him "Jir" the name stuck. He also leaves behind his brother Michael Meislik (Miriam); his niece Ramit Mizrahi (Justin Bois) and son Ben; his niece Brooke Tow (Adam)and children Ziva and Sigal, along with other special family members, many friends, patients and his beloved cat Sammi. He was preceded in death by his parents.

When he was 3 years old Jerry decided to become a doctor and never wavered from that decision. He loved practicing ophthalmology and performing eye surgery in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Upon moving to Whitefish, he worked part-time at Glacier Eye Clinic for many years. Retirement allowed him to follow his lifelong passions of bonsai; writing two popular books on Ficus bonsai; photography and playing with the computer. He and Rhona loved traveling and visited many fascinating places.

Jerry received absolutely amazing medical care over the last three and a half years. We cannot individually name everyone but a special thanks to Dr. Jennings, Dr. Roop, the staff at Logan Health Whitefish and especially the Infusion Center staff.

For those wishing to honor Jerry’s life please send donations to the Whitefish Community Foundation or a charity of your choice.

Jerry has been cremated and no service is planned at this time.  A celebration of life will be planned at a future date.

To send online condolences please visit www.austinfh.com. Austin Funeral and Cremation Services is caring for the family.