Jerome "Jerry" Charles Yanoff

He was born in Manhattan, New York and moved to Chicago at three years old. Jerry lived in the Edgewater and Rogers Park/ West Ridge neighborhoods for the majority of his life. He spent two years in Hawaii while in the Army. He was a member of the U.S. Army Band and played the clarinet and percussion instruments. After returning home to Chicago, Jerry became a teacher at Mather High School where he taught emotionally disturbed children for 27 years. He was actively involved in the Chicago Teachers Union. After retiring from Mather Jerry continued his mission to improve the quality of teachers and became an adjunct faculty member at National Louis University, published three books for teachers, and gave numerous presentations at academic conventions. Jerry continued to be active with the Chicago Public Schools as a member of the Local School Council for Mosaic School of Fine Arts until recently.

Jerry had many interests outside of education. He enjoyed traveling, theater, music, and reading. He had numerous collections ranging from cup plates and bookmarks to autographs and eagles. He was a member at the Galter Life Center for many years and recently discovered the music program at the Levy Center.

Jerry is survived by his long-time partner, Roxanne Phillips, his sons David (Valerie) and Daniel (Julin): his granddaughters Rachel and Leilani; Roxanne's Daughters, Regan and Catlin; and their children, Caden, Rylan, Maren, and Code; and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Morris and Judith Yanoff, and his brother Michael. Visitation will be held at Drake & Son Funeral Home on August 19 from 4-8PM. Interment will be private.

Donations may be made in Jerry's name to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation