Gerald D. Janes

Gerald D. "Jerry" Janes, age 68, of Joliet, IL died on June 22, 2015 at Lehigh, FL Hope Hospice. Jerry was born December 1, 1946 to Rudolph Janes and Vivian (Wilson) Ramirez. Jerry leaves his sisters, Judith McSherry and Janice (Joe) Vaughan; brother, Rudy (Bonnie) Janes; half-brothers, Howard and Lupe Ramirez; longtime friend, Clark "Doug" Schiefen; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews to celebrate his life.

Jerry served in the Army (Korea) from 1967 to 1969. Upon discharge from the army he worked as a welder at Caterpillar in Joliet, retiring in 2006. Jerry was a member of Tice and The Shores, FL Moose Lodge 1297.

Upon his retirement, he spent time at his River Haus in Wilmington, IL as well as winters in Ft. Myers, FL where he especially looked forward to visits from his niece, Melanie Bell and her children.

As well as traveling, gardening, and photography, Jerry greatly enjoyed having relatives and friends come to the River Haus for boat rides, socializing, and fish fries by his brother-in-law, Joe Vaughan. He gave his family a sense of honor and pride, left a positive mark on every life he touched, and never let anyone feel they were not part of the family. His family and life time friends can be comforted by his love for life, commitment, loyalty, and hard work.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; and half-brother, Lenny Ramirez.

A Celebration of Jerry's life will begin on Thursday, July 16, 2015 with prayers in the funeral home chapel at 9:20 a.m. then driving in procession to St. Mary Nativity Catholic Church, Joliet for a Mass of Christian Burial to be held at 10:00 a.m. Inurnment to follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood where full military honors will be accorded. Visitation will be Wednesday, July 15, 2015 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Rd, Joliet, IL 60435.