Jerry Weglarz

Jerry was born on January 9, 1952 to Frank and Helen (Koniuszy) Weglarz in Harvey, Illinois. He was the youngest in his family to his late siblings, Joseph Weglarz and Veronica Bortz. Jerry grew up in a tight knit neighborhood next to St. John the Baptist church. He came from a meager upbringing but had made some rich lifelong friendships. He joined the Marines in 1969 where he was stationed at Camp Lejeune. He was an AmTrak Crew Man and tractor operator while stationed there. He met the love of his life, Debbie Holtz, shortly after his military service. They were meant for each other – Jerry knew she was the one from the very start. Together, they built a solid and loving foundation for their family. He dedicated his life applying the lessons his meager upbringing taught him about the values a husband and father needs to bring forward to create a happy, kind and loving environment where everyone could thrive. He was the kind of guy you'd want in your corner because he would do anything for his wife, kids, or anyone for that matter. Without hesitation he gave, supported and engaged in our everyday lives. Tending to his garden, an abundance grew. To provide for his family, he worked for the Indiana Harbor Belt railroad for many years until retirement. It was a tough job, often enduring brutal outdoor elements and maintaining a grueling on-call schedule. Yet he persisted as a hard worker, with his eye on the bigger picture. He knew his hard work would pay off and counted the days until his retirement where he could fully enjoy his happy place in Ludington, Michigan. Jerry was incredibly proud of the home he and his wife made there. In particular, his boat where he could watch the sunset, drive to the sandbar with his kids and grandkids to dip their toes in the water and fish with his family. He had acres of land to wander around both on foot and on the golf cart, which somehow survived the rough and tumble adventures of his vivacious family. He also enjoyed planting trees, gardening, feeding and watching birds, tapping trees to make maple syrup and tinkering with all the little projects that made the lake life the best life. His heart was content; his hard work richly rewarded. Jerry battled cancer in his final year and valiantly proved how strong a warrior he was throughout his illness. Never giving up, he determinedly lived his life to the fullest and cracked jokes until the very end. Always willing to lift up the spirits of the room with his deep and infectious laughter. His love and kindness emanated through everything he did, especially through his baking. His cookies were legendary. Jerry was the best of the best and will be greatly missed by many. The family is asking for attendees to wear their favorite flannel or plaid to the services to honor Jerry. Resting at the Tews-Ryan Funeral Home, 18230 Dixie Highway, Homewood IL. 60430 on Friday, March 24, 2023 from 3:00 until 8:00 p.m. Prayers at funeral home on Saturday, March 25, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. Funeral Mass to follow 10:30 a.m. at St. John Neumann Church (formerly St. Joseph Church), 17951 Dixie Highway, Homewood IL 60430. Burial at Holy Cross Cemetery in Calumet City, Illinois. For additional information contact (708) 798-5300 or info@tews-ryanfh.com .