It is with great sadness that the family of Gerald “Jerry” Eich announce his passing on October 3, 2024, at the age of 84, surrounded by his loving family at the Pavilion of Ottawa.
Visitation will be held on Saturday October 12th from 10-11:30AM at the chapel at Oakwood Memorial Park. A funeral ceremony will follow at 11:30AM. Interment with military honors will follow at the graveside.
Jerry was born March 13, 1940, in Ottawa, IL, to John and Margaret (Cunningham) Eich. After high school, he served in the United States Army from 1963-1969 and then started working at Peltiers Marble Factory. He then met the love of his life, Joan Kuk at the Silverfrost in his Thunderbird. Their first date was at a car show, which turned into his passion through his whole life, never wanting to miss a show with his camera. He was a member of the LaSalle County Cruisers Car Club with his dear friend Mike Dougherty for 40 years, ultimately serving as vice president until the time of his passing. His love for cars and photography only grew with time, spanning from the United States to overseas. He loved to talk about it to anyone who would listen.
A proud veteran, Jerry served in the Army, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant Tank Commander before his honorable discharge. He was proud to have done his duty to help defend the freedom of citizens across this country.
He was a member of St. Francis of Assisi and St. Columba Catholic Churches.
He was the best father to Jodene (Michael) Denham, Jim Eich, and Angela (Bill) Scerini; grandfather to Kristin (Kyle) Eich, Kayla (Josh) Reimann, and James Eich; great grandfather to Jonathon, Jarod, Paisley, Jonah, Paxton, Pierson, Jaelynn, and Kayson; brother to Kate Hicks; brother in law to Irene (Frank) Rathbun; and uncle to many nieces and nephews. He especially loved to hang out with Kate, Steve, Mike and Kathy to attend various activities including basketball & baseball games.
Jerry was preceded in death by his loving wife of 55 years, Joni; his parents, John and Margaret; his siblings, Joseph, Thomas Richard, Larry, and Mary; and nephews, Danny and Tim.
He took great pride in being a brother, uncle, dad, grandpa and poppy. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for them.
Memorial contributions can be directed to the family or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Jerry was laid to rest in the Garden of Prayer at Oakwood Memorial Park in Ottawa, IL.