Jon “Shorty” Mauerman, cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 15th, 2024. He departed this world surrounded by his loving family, who were grateful for his endless supply of laughter, love, and practical jokes.
Shorty was born on January 29, 1954, to the late Gordon and Joyce Mauerman. Jon loved working on his sister’s farm growing up, and after graduating from Albany High School in 1972, he joined the world of steel manufacturing where he embarked on a 49-year career at Varco-Pruden in Evansville, WI, while also serving as a member, and financial secretary, of the United Steelworkers Union.
In his younger years, Shorty was a force to be reckoned with on the basketball court, his slow-pitch softball team, and behind the wheel of pretty much any vehicle he’d jump into. He loved cross-country trips on his Honda Gold Wing motorcycle and spending time with the guys hunting in the Fall. He then met Cindy Zurfluh, who lovingly tolerated his wild spirit and endless stream of jokes and questionable DIY home projects. They were married for 42 years and, together, built a beautiful life, and literal home by hand, where they raised their three children: Bradley, Jennifer, and Jessica.
As a father, Shorty was equal parts coach, referee, and comedian, always quick with a witty remark or goofy prank to put a smile on his kids’ faces. He taught them, at a young age, to do all the things he loved most: water ski, shoot 3-pointers, how to drive, and never swerve for a deer. He coached them how to start their own lawn mowing business, to understand the importance of responsibility and a good work ethic, and constantly remind them that WWF wrestling should be left to the professionals.
Jon’s greatest joy in life was being a grandfather to his two grandchildren, who affectionately referred to him as “Papa Jon”. From impromptu dance parties, dinosaur scares, navigating the winding Sugar River in a kayak, reading bedtime stories and countless hours of toddler jibber jabber over FaceTime, he cherished every moment spent with his beloved grandkids.
Jon leaves behind a family that was so blessed to be loved by him: Wife, Cindy Mauerman; Children, Brad (Amanda) Mauerman, Jennifer Mauerman, Jessica Mauerman; Grandchildren, Shay and Ellis Mauerman; Dog, Roxy; Siblings, Jerry Mauerman, Judy (Al Rodenberg) Prisk, Jim Mauerman, and Jeffrey (Cassie) Mauerman; 5 Nephews, 6 Nieces; 10 Great Nephews, 11 Great Nieces
He was preceded in death by his parents, and nephew, Rich Mauerman.
Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at 12:00pm at the Albany United Methodist Church with Pastor Tom Moe officiating. A visitation will be held from 10:00am until the time of the service at the church. Condolences may be sent to the family at: shriner111.com.
A celebration of Shorty’s life will be held on Saturday, February 24, 2024, immediately preceding the funeral, at The Albany American Legion where friends and family will gather to honor his memory and share their favorite shorty-isms.
Jon’s legacy of laughter, love, and practical jokes will live in the hearts of all who knew him. While he may be gone, his spirit will forever linger in the memories and stories that his family and friends share.
