Jerome J. Radtke Jr.

Jerome J. Radtke, Jr. of Corinth, Texas passed away on Friday, October 2, 2026, leaving behind a legacy as massive and enduring as the man himself. To those who were lucky enough to know him, he was nothing short of a giant—a towering presence of strength, capability, and unwavering reliability.

He was, quite simply, the strongest man we have ever known. But his strength was never just physical; it was anchored in a deeply ingrained sense of responsibility. He was a natural authority figure, teacher, and protector, the kind of man who served as a safe harbor in any storm. Yet, for all his formidable presence, Jerome was a deeply loyal friend who loved with the same immense capacity with which he lived.

Jerome's family and friends were the center of his life, and he cherished every opportunity to spend time with them, relive old memories, and laugh. He was a devoted husband, a faithful father, a caring brother, and a loyal friend. His laughter, kindness, steady presence, and love will remain with us in countless memories. Jerome loved the outdoors, the beauty of Michigan, Detroit Tigers baseball, classic rock music, and gathering with friends and family beside any body of water.

He was born on March 11, 1953 in Dearborn, Michigan to Jerome Joseph Radtke and Rose Skubisz. Graduating from Riverside High School, Jerome continued his education at Henry Ford College earning his electrical certification. He was a longtime resident of Livonia, Michigan before becoming a true Texan. He retired after a 37 year career with DTE Energy, and continued many lifelong friendships with colleagues and childhood friends.

It seemed there was truly nothing Jerome did not know how to do. He possessed a breadth of knowledge and an arsenal of skills that made him the definitive answer to almost any problem. He was a true master of all trades, combining a craftsman’s hands with an artist’s mind. His creativity and attention to detail shone through in everything he touched, leaving behind a trail of projects, repairs, drawings on birthday cards, and inventive creations that stand as physical reminders of his brilliant, restless mind.

More than his protective nature or his endless skills, we will miss his counsel. Jerome loved the Lord, his family and friends, our Nation, and was a well of wisdom. He always gave advice—grounded, thoughtful, and unfailingly honest. When you needed a sounding board, a reality check, or a steadying word, his was the voice you sought out, and his words always carried weight. Large in stature, a protector in spirit, and a legend in the hearts of those who loved him, Jerome’s absence leaves a space that can never truly be filled.

He is survived by his loving wife, Rita, his sister, Carmen Lieder of Phoenix, Arizona, his children, Rick Peters (Kris) of Houston, Texas, Michael Peters (Dana) of The Colony, Texas, Melissa Peters of Denton, Texas, and bonus son George Sovinsky of Troy, Michigan, eight grandchildren, and four great grandchildren, who will continue to honor his extraordinary life by fixing what is broken, protecting what matters, and passing on the wisdom he so freely shared.

“Go rest high on that mountain
Son your work on earth is done
Go to heaven a-shoutin'
Love for the Father and the Son"

Vincent Grant Gill
Go Rest High On That Mountain lyrics © Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation in his memory.

Tunnel to Towers Foundation 

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