Gerald Francis McGinnis

Jerry was born in Blue Island, Illinois and raised in Riverdale Illinois. He is survived by his wife, Patricia (Lynch) McGinnis, his son, Ryan (Antoinette), his daughter, Robin (Jeff) and his grandchildren, Lindsey, Lucas, Chloe and Gannon, niece, Sharla and great nephew, Aidan. He is preceded in death by his father, Gerald H. McGinnis, mother Esther (Grassmick) McGinnis and his sister Shirley and brother Timmy.

Jerry, a proud American, served in the United States Army from 1966 to 1968 and was a decorated Vietnam Veteran with the nickname “Nasty Mac”. He saved the lives of many in his platoon and was awarded two Bronze Stars with valor and two Purple Hearts. He rose to the rank of E-5 Sergeant.

He opened a successful typewriter repair business, Ram Office Equipment, in Riverdale and employed and mentored many. He was honest and hard working. He could close a deal with the wink of an eye and his Cheshire cat’s smile. From bankers to bikers, they all adored Jerry and rightfully so. No one could resist his quick wit and easy going charm. He had a gift for telling a story and could captivate a room full of people waiting to hear yet another one.

He was a loving yet strict father to his son Ryan and daughter Robin. Jerry and Ryan enjoyed oil painting, snow skiing, fishing and a little golf. Never far from the water, Ryan and Jerry scuba dived in Lake Michigan and the Springs of Florida. Robin vacationed in Florida and enjoyed lunching with her father at “Shuckers” restaurant .

He was an avid boater and fisherman. He loved fishing the waters of Lake Michigan and Florida and can be seen in many pictures with his catches of the day. His favorite fish in Lake Michigan were Perch, Smelt and Salmon. Florida favorites included Snapper, Grouper, Sheep’s Head and the occasional Puffer fish and small sharks. Jerry never met a fish he didn’t like.

Jerry was especially proud of his grandchildren and great nephew. He often said that Chloe was a “natural” fisherman and Gannon “the carpenter” had skills beyond his years. Lucas and Lindsay performed with their school band in the Macy’s parade in 2023 and Jerry was glued to the TV in hopes of catching a glimpse of them. Great nephew Aidan's scouting accomplishments were a source of great pride to Jerry.

Jerry enjoyed 22 years with his soul mate and wife Pat. Made for each other and married twice, they were inseparable and created a loving home and sanctuary where family and friends were always welcome. His top notch woodworking skills can be witnessed by the many projects and custom improvements made to their home. He created a backyard paradise and called it “Jeradise”. Many friends and family members enjoyed his horticultural master garden which is filled with palm trees and floridian flowers. Jerry studied the Blue Jay's of “Jeradise” for endless hours and was their protector from feral cats. The light displays at Christmas time made “Jeradise” it even more magical.

When you think of Jerry McGinnis remember his stories, speak his name often and FISH ON.