Gerald Thomas Kasper was born on October 30, 1963 in Kellnersville, Wisconsin to loving parents Mel and Janice Kasper.  Jerry attended St. Joseph’s Catholic School with his brothers, Ken and Wade, and his sisters, Debbie and Cato. He was a “jock” during his high school years at Reedville, participating in football, baseball, and wrestling. Jerry graduated from Fox Valley Technical College with an AS degree in Fire Science in 1985. In June, 1985, he moved to Orlando and continued with his Fire Science studies and became an EMT. While he worked for several fire departments, Jerry had one goal in mind...to become an Orlando Firefighter. He attained that goal on September 18, 1988, when he was hired by Fire Chief Gene Reynolds. Jerry aspired to be a leader in his department. He studied hard, trained often, and led by example. He was promoted to Engineer on November 19, 1995 and achieved the rank of Lieutenant on December 27, 1998. Jerry was a man’s man….he loved deer hunting, camping, fishing, and throwing back a few beers with his buddies. He loved to play fast pitch softball and was a member of the Orlando Fire Department team for many years. One of his favorite memories was his annual football trips with Scott Hammond and John Miller. Every year they would travel to an NFL game for a “bonding” experience. The “NFL Pack” is a friendship that is fierce. And the tradition will live on with Kyle stepping in to take his Dad’s place in the trio.  On February 19, 2005, Jerry married Marcia Dryden. Together with Katlyn, Kyle, and Krystin, their family created memories that every family longs to have. Not a perfect family, for none of us have those, but a family whose love for one another carried them through the trials of life to emerge stronger for their journey. You need only look around you today to see the impact Jerry had in the lives he touched. His love transcended the small stuff in life, to reach deep into the hearts of his family and friends. So much so that friends felt like family...and so we are.  Jerry taught us much during his short, four month battle. How to laugh, how to love, what is really important when you face eternity. Jerry’s courage was stronger the last days of his life than on any shift he reported for duty.  And so we will continue without Jerry’s physical presence in our lives...but the man he was will linger in our memories….and T11 will never respond without the Lieutenant who personified an Orlando Firefighter.  Jerry, we will miss you...and we’ll see you soon!