Jeremiah Patrick Sterr

"Jerry"

Age 88 of Joliet, IL, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Monday, August 14, 2023. Born December 18, 1934, in Kankakee, IL to Ramona Josephine (Hanrahan) and George Edward Sterr. Jerry was raised in Joliet, he attended St. Mary Carmelite Grade School, Joliet Catholic High School (class of 1952), and Joliet Junior College.

Beloved husband of 67 years to Patricia Ann (McFadden); proud father to Jeffrey (Julie, nee McCabe), the late Sean (Rita, nee Ochs), Patrick, Kelly (Tim) Ruettiger, Todd, and Craig (Debbie, nee Zabel); proud grandfather of 19 grandchildren; Patrick Sterr, Jamie (Sean) Hopkins, Jessica (Matt) Dillingham, Scott Stachulak; John (Kristina) Churchwell and Katie Sterr; Jennifer, nee Spindler, (Ryan) Swedko; Billy (Allison) Spindler, Michael (Melissa) Jurek, Tiffany Jurek, Kevin (Nichole) Jurek, Keith (Karen) Jurek, Nicole Sterr, and Shannon Sterr; Daniel Ruettiger, Jacob Ruettiger, Maggie (Kyle) Dooley, Jeremiah "Jeremy" Sterr, and Kylie Sterr; and 20 great-grandchildren. Jerry is also survived by his brother, Michael (Kathy) Sterr; sister-in-law, Carol (nee Pubentz) Lehman; brothers-in-law, Joseph "Tip" (Norma) McFadden and James (Carol) McFadden; sisters-in-law, Kathleen "Kaye" (the late George "Tom") Turner and Nan (Lou) Chignoli; and many nieces and nephews. He will also be missed by his caregiver Claire Postrano.

Preceded in death by his parents; his brother, John; one son, Sean; and his grandson, Michael Sterr.

Jerry proudly served his country from 1956-58 in the United States Army with the 5th Armored Division, Company C, 80th Heavy Tank Battalion. After his service he worked for Adler Roofing and Modern Builders before becoming the Chief Building Inspector for the City of Joliet. Jerry retired after 20 years with the City.

Member of The American Legion Post #1080, Joliet Elks Lodge #296, and the Monday Squad at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery. He was a past member of the Board of Directors for Stepping Stones. He also enjoyed many years of coaching wrestling at the Boys & Girls Club of Joliet, baseball at Marycrest Little League, and youth tackle football with the Caton Cats.

Per Jerry's wishes Cremation Rites were respectfully addressed.

A Memorial Gathering will be held on Friday, August 25, 2023 at Saint Paul the Apostle Catholic Church 18 Woodlawn Ave. Joliet, IL 60435 from 9:00am until time of Memorial Mass at 10:00am. Immediately following Mass Inurnment with Military Honors will take place at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL.