Gerald R. Smith

Gerald R. Smith, 87 of Orland Park (formerly of Frankfort, Matteson and Chicago Heights) Illinois passed away on January 20th 2021.

Gerald (Gerry) was born to parents Clarence and Lydia in Harvey IL on January 28th 1933 and grew up in Chicago Heights. Gerry had a brother Clarence (Ed) and a Sister Charlotte – both deceased. He attended St Paul Lutheran school in Chicago Heights and Bloom High School where he participated on the Football and Track teams. Gerry graduated from Bradley University (1954) with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. After college, Gerry served his country in the US Airforce and spent time in Biloxi Mississippi, Texas and Korea. Gerry met the love of his life, Claudette R. Fisher (preceded in death in 2008) in Madison Wisconsin. Gerry and Claudette were married in April of 1957 in Biloxi Mississippi. Gerry and Claudie had four children; Carolyn Becker (Ken), Marilyn Micetich (Chris), Ellen MacCracken (Hugh) and Brian Smith. Eight grandchildren; Andy Micetich, Marissa Cabay (Keith), Kyle MacCracken (Lauren), Ryan MacCracken (Joy), Kevin Micetich, Brad Smith, Stephanie Becker and Eric Smith. And one great granddaughter (Lily Cabay). Gerry worked for Illinois Bell for 33 years and volunteered for the Matteson Planning Commission. After retirement, Gerry volunteered at Hope Lutheran Church in Park Forrest and St. Paul Lutheran Church in Matteson as he was a member in both churches. Gerry enjoyed spending time with his family especially during the holidays and birthdays. Gerry was a big Bears fan and enjoyed watching them win the Superbowl in 1986. Gerry also had a special place in his heart for dogs. At family parties, you could find his hand petting one of the dogs and occasionally giving them a treat.

Funeral services will be held at St Paul Lutheran Church 6201 Vollmer Rd. Matteson IL 60443 on Monday January 25th at 11:00 AM, with an hour of visitation prior to funeral will begin at 10:00 AM. Burial will follow to Skyline Memorial Park, Monee. In lieu of flowers memorials to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Gerald’s name would be appreciated. Funeral Arrangements handled by Kurtz Memorial Chapel, Frankfort

LIVE STREAM LINK TO WATCH FUNERAL SERVICE:
https://www.asimplestreaming.com/gsmith/