Gerald “Jerry” Wicinski

Gerald “Jerry” Wicinski, 79, Stiles, died Wednesday morning, March 24, 2021 at home, surrounded by his loving family, following a short illness. He was born June 1, 1941 in Hammond, IN to Frank and Florence (Ogrodowski) Wicinski. Jerry grew up in Calumet City, IL where he attended St. Andrews Catholic grade school and developed a deep affection for Bishop Sheen, carrying the bishop’s picture with him his entire adult life. Following graduation from high school, Jerry attended Purdue University and worked for his uncle building homes.

On September 8, 1962 he married his high school sweetheart Marge “Sis” Pawlak at Mother of God Catholic Church in Burnham, IL. Following their marriage, the couple lived in Calumet City where Jerry started a 25 year career with Republic Steel, working his way up to superintendent. In 1987, the couple moved to Stiles and Jerry worked as a representative for Bankers Life Insurance Co. Living in Stiles, Jerry felt like he was living in God’s country and serving Him as a devoted member of St. Patrick Catholic Church in numerous capacities.

Survivors are his loving and devoted wife of 58 years, Marge “Sis” Wicinski, Stiles; their three children, Jerome (Denise) Wicinski, Shiocton; Jacqueline (Rey) Mireles and Julie (Jim) Basich, all of Valparaiso, IN; three grandchildren, Niko and Payton Mireles, Brittany Wicinski; one great grandson, Anubis Wicinski; one brother, Thomas Wicinski, Wheatfield, IN; one brother-in-law, Ronald Romandine Sr., FL; special nieces and nephews, Ronald (Carrie) Romandine Jr. and children Corrina and Connor; Anthony (Cindy) Romandine and children Syd, Izzy, Ally and Adrian; Jill (Dave) Brasier and children Sam and Bri; Amy (Chris) Romandine-Kratz; Toni Lynn, Renee, Tommy and Emily Wicinski.

He was preceded in death by his parents, infant son Michael and sister-in-law, Jeannette Romandine.

Visitation will be held after 9:00 am Saturday, March 27, 2021 at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Stiles until the time of service. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 am Saturday at the church with the Rev. Frs. Greg Parent and Bob Karuhn officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.