Gerald "Jerry" John Zaleppa, 68, of Falls, passed away Saturday, June 21, 2025 at St. Luke's University Hospital, in Bethlehem, surrounded by his loving family.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Diane Vernoski Zaleppa, whom he shared a life with for 43 wonderful years, including 31 years of marriage.

Born in Pittston, on July 31, 1956, Jerry was the son of the late Norman and Phyllis Satkowski Zaleppa.

Jerry was a member of Church of the Holy Redeemer, of Corpus Christi Parish, in Harding.  He was a graduate of Wyoming Area High School, Class of 1974.

Prior to his recent retirement, Jerry was a supervisor for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). He oversaw important transportation projects in the area. Before PennDOT, Jerry owned and operated Zaleppa Trucking Company.  He was also the proprietor of Z's Bait & Tackle in Falls.

Jerry will be remembered for his dedication to his work and his love for the outdoors.  He was an avid fisherman, enjoying many fishing trips to NY for salmon and locally fishing for trout.

Known for his exceptional talents in the kitchen, Jerry was an excellent cook, delighting family and friends with his culinary creations. Beyond the kitchen, he possessed a profound connection to nature, evident in his love for gardening. His flower and vegetable gardens were a testament to his dedication, bursting with vibrant colors and fresh produce.

Jerry also cultivated a unique backyard oasis, complete with raising chickens and creating ponds through his yard.  This personal sanctuary was a reflection of his desire to surround himself and his family with beauty and tranquility. He loved sharing these passions, teaching others the joy of nurturing life, whether through gardening or caring for the chickens.

He enjoyed spending time with loved ones, especially in the garage, where he worked on family vehicles or fixing whatever was in need of repair with his sons.

A "stand-up guy," Jerry was loved by all who knew him. He was a faithful and devoted son, husband, father, brother, and uncle.

Jerry was truly a "home body," finding immense joy and comfort in the love of his family and the warmth of his home.

Surviving in addition to his wife, Diane, Jerry is survived by his sons, Michael and Joseph Zaleppa; and his daughter Nicole Zaleppa, all at home; his sisters, Cynthia Zaleppa, and sister-in-law, Margie, West Wyoming; Carla Thorek and her husband, Brian, West Wyoming; and his brother, Mark Zaleppa, West Wyoming; his Aunt, Margaret Satkowski, Kingston Twp.; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Jerry's Funeral Service which will be held on Saturday at 11 A.M, at the Bednarski Funeral Home, 168 Wyoming Ave., Wyoming, with the Reverend Peter Tomczak, officiating.

Interment will follow in Mountain View Cemetery, Harding.

Family and friends are invited to attend Jerry's visitation, which will be held on Saturday morning from 9 to 11 A.M. at the Bednarski Funeral Home, 168 Wyoming Ave., Wyoming.

To share a memory of Jerry or message of condolence with his family, please visit http://www.bednarskifuneralhome.com