Jerry Erjavec

Loving husband of Barbara (Schreiner).

Beloved son of the late Frank and the late Rose Erjavec.

Devoted father to Gerald (Linda), Steven (John), and the late Karen.

Adored grandfather to Jerry and Allen (Alyssa).

Cherished great grandfather to Jerry, Joel, Jana, and Kaya.

Jerry was born at home in Chicago on August 8, 1930, and was baptized on August 16, 1930. He attended J. Sterling Morton High School in Cicero and afterward held various jobs until he enlisted in the Air Force in August 1950.  He served as an airplane mechanic for four years, including 11 months in Korea during the Korean War. While in the service, he married Barbara, his wife of 69 years at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland.  Following his honorable discharge, they took up residence in Cicero, where they started their family.

Jerry worked various jobs until he joined the Cicero Police Force in 1959, beginning a successful 30 plus year career as both a patrolman and detective.  He rose to the rank of sergeant and was influential as the president of the Policeman’s Benevolent Association.  At the same time, Jerry also had a masonry business, where he was highly regarded as the best tuck pointer around.

Jerry had many outside interests.  He was an avid fisherman, enjoying many trips to Canada with friends and family. He was also an excellent shooter and a longtime member of the Trap and Field Sportsman’s Club. He and the family greatly enjoyed spending time at their summer home at Hills Lake, accompanied by his faithful four-legged companion, Star.

Jerry was also an accomplished cook, putting his talents to work hosting breakfasts and dinners at many venues, including Redeemer Lutheran Church and the White Lantern Club. He was also known for his potato pancakes at church picnics.  He also made his own sausage and enjoyed cooking many family dinners.  When not cooking on his own, Jerry enjoyed visiting his favorite restaurants, the Silvercryst, Old Prague, and Bohemian Crystal.

In addition to his professional duties, Jerry enjoyed serving others acting, among other roles, as cubmaster when his boys were young, various boards at Redeemer Lutheran Church, and a longtime treasurer at Living Word Lutheran Church.  Jerry also enjoyed collecting and tinkering with clocks and playing golf.  All in all, Jerry led a full life.  He will be missed by many.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Karen Erjavec Scholarship Fund, Walther Christian Academy, 900 Chicago Ave, Melrose Park, IL 60160.