Jerry A. Mahlandt, 83, of Ft. Myers, Fl and a former long time resident of Breese passed away January 29, 2011 at his home in Trenton, after a lengthy illness. 

He was born in Breese July 17, 1927 the son of the late Erwin and Evelyn (Helwig) Mahlandt. 

He is survived by his loving wife Patricia, two sons Steve (Patti) Mahlandt and David Mahlandt all of Breese 

Four grandsons Chris (Jamie) of Chicago, Josh (fiancée Courtney Marron) Mahlandt, Aaron (friend Erin Gourley) Mahlandt and Luke Mahlandt of Breese 

Also survving is a daughter Marsha of Centralia, a stepson Ed (Danette) Darling of Potosi, MO and their two sons Jesse (Katie) of Columbia, MO and Jacob Darling of Rolla, MO. A Step daughter Annie Gasparovich of Homewood, IL and her two children Amanda Owen and Josh Owen of Homewood, IL 

Jerry graduated from Breese High School in 1945 and the University of Missouri in 1950 where in majored in Journalism. He served a year and a half in the U.S. Army in 1946 and 1947. 

In June of 1950 he became editor of the Breese Journal, the position he held until his father’s retirement, when he assumed the title of publisher. Jerry retired in 1994 when his sons took over the printing and publishing firm. He and his wife divided their time between a home in Trenton and Ft. Myers, Fl for the past 20 years. Jerry was an avid sportsman and loved to hunt, fish, bowl and play tennis, and of course golf was his favorite in later years. He and his wife also liked to travel and meet people. Mahlandt was a life-time member of St. John United Church of Christ in Breese, Breese American Legion Post 252, past member of the Elks and Moose Lodge in Belleville, past president of the Breese Lions Club, and chamber of Commerce and proudly still played golf several golf leagues in Breese, Lebanon and Ft. Myers.

Professional affiliations include Alpha Delta Sigma Honorary Fraternity at Mizzou, Southern Illinois Editorial Association of the Illinois Press Association.  

Memorial service will be held at St. John United Church of Christ in Breese at 11:00 am Wednesday February 2, 2011 with Rev. Elmer Bowman officiating. Burial will follow in St. John Cemetery, Breese. 

Visitation is Wednesday February 2, 2011 from 9 to 11:00 am at St. John United Church of Christ in Breese. His body was cremated according to his wishes.  

Memorials will be accepted for St. John United Church of Christ and can be made through Moss Funeral Home in Breese who is handling the arrangements. 

Jerry Mahlandt loved and had a great respect for his family, friends, business, church, country and both communities.