Gerald E. Herr

Gerald Eugene “Jerry” Herr, age 88 of Rensselaer, passed away Sunday, February 27, 2011 in Rensselaer. He was born August 1, 1922 in McCoysburg, son of the late Levi and Josie (Stultz) Herr.

Jerry attended the Hanging Grove School and graduated from Rensselaer High School. He served his country in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. On July 25, 1943 in Gary, Jerry married his wife of 65 years, Marjorie Ann Tabor. She preceded him in death on September 24, 2008.

Jerry spent much of his life living in Gary and Hobart. He was a carpenter with Local 1005, and a millwright with Local 1043, retiring in 1984. Jerry and his wife retired to Monticello. They moved to Rensselaer in 2000. Jerry was a member of the First Christian Church of Rensselaer and a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans.

Jerry gave of his talents generously. He had a love for flying and often took neighborhood children up for rides in his airplane. He was always willing to help those in need, helping friends and family alike by showing up with his pickup truck, his tool box, and his strong yet gentle way. Jerry and his wife Marjorie also gave of their musical talent by entertaining the residents of senior citizen centers. He will be remembered by his family and friends for his constant, steady presence in their lives.

Jerry is survived by two children, Joyce Bolz of Schererville and Janice (Mrs. Stan) Wright of Rensselaer; four grandchildren, Bonnie Tuck, Shelly Wynkoop, Christine Timberlake and James Mitchell; seven great-grandchildren, April Guinn, Jessica Wright, Julianne Arroyo, Adam Mitchell, Andrew Mitchell, Paige Wynkoop and Chloe Wynkoop; two brothers, Arnold (wife: Barb) Herr of Lowell and Lloyd (wife: Mary) Herr of Crawfordsville; sister, Levila Gluth of DeMotte, and dear friend Sandy Vanderploeg and her children, Chad and Stephanie.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, a granddaughter, Jackie Wright, brothers Henry and Jack, sisters Martha, Helen and Emma, and his parents.

Friends may call Wednesday, March 2, 2011 from 11:00 A.M. until time of services at 1:30 P.M. at Steinke Funeral Home of Rensselaer with Rev. Eric Brotheridge officiating. Interment will follow at Osborne Cemetery.