MIKESKA

Jerry Mikeska, 96, passed away peacefully May 12 in Austin. He was born in Taylor, June 5, 1923 to John and Frances Valis Mikeska. Jerry grew up working on his family’s farm, and got his first job at the age of 14 working in a meat market. At age 19, he enlisted in the Army Air Corp to serve in World War II. Jerry was a mess sergeant in the 417th Night Fighter Squadron, which flew the P-61 Black Widow. Jerry received two Bronze Stars. Following the war, he opened a meat market in Georgetown, and after two years, moved to Bastrop where he bought a new meat market. In Bastrop he met and married Arlyne Linenberger, and in 1955 they had their first child, Gregory. Soon after in 1956, Jerry bought a meat market in Columbus and his daughter, Marcy, was born a few years later. In the back of the market he also sold barbecue and sausage, serving it on butcher paper with crackers and bread. Jerry’s meat market ultimately evolved into a well-known barbecue restaurant and catering business, earning him the name “Barbecue King of the Southwest.” He had many loyal employees over the years and many affectionately called him “Boss.” He especially enjoyed visiting with customers, saying “Thank you for stopping with us,” and handing out dollar coins to the children.