Jerry Vodicka, 86, of DeRidder, LA, passed from this life on Sunday, April 14, 2024.

Jerry escaped the communist system and became a proud American citizen. He served twenty-one years in the US Army which included two tours in Vietnam. He loved America and it showed in his patriotism. Jerry and Barbara traveled the world serving their country. Settling in DeRidder, they owned and operated The Cottage Restaurant for 25 years. They were famous for their pretzel burgers and German foods.

Those left to cherish his memory are his sons, David Vodicka and Kim of DeRidder, LA, Jerry Vodicka and Misty of DeRidder, LA; daughter, Christine Vavasseur and Ike of Greenwell Springs, LA; sisters, Anna Blahova and Zdena Vesela, both of Melnik, Czech Republic; seven grandchildren; nine great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife Barbara Vodicka; parents, Jozef and Veronika Vodicka.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, from 2:00 PM until 4:00 PM at Myers Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, LA. A private burial will be held later at Southwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in Jennings, LA.

The family would like to express a special thank you to Southwest Louisiana War Veterans Home in Jennings, LA and Lamm Family Care Hospice for their exceptional care and compassion during Jerry’s time with them.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association or any disabled veterans’ charity of your choice in memory of Jerry Vodicka.