Gerald “Jerry” Schindler

Gerald “Jerry” H. Schindler, 76, of Roscoe passed away Sunday, February 2, 2020, surrounded by his family. Born November 7, 1943, in Colfax, Wisconsin, the son of Herman and Lidwina Schindler. Married Sharon Kryszczuk, daughter of Michael and Wanda Kryszczuk, on July 2, 1966, in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. President of Audio Engineering, an electrical contracting firm he has owned and operated for over 45 years. Longtime member of St. Stanislaus Church and Holy Name Society.

Jerry was a passionate and honest businessman who loved his work almost as much as he loved the people he worked with. He was a patient teacher, trustworthy mentor, and true friend to a great many people. Jerry was an avid gardener who loved sharing the fruits of his labor with neighbors and friends, and although he wasn’t the biggest sports fan, he sure loved his Green Bay Packers.

Jerry was a devoutly religious man who lived out his faith in every facet of his life. First and foremost, Jerry was a family man. “Papa”, as he was called by his grandkids, was a kind, playful and supportive grandfather who loved spending time with his grandchildren. He especially loved attending the kids’ sporting events and always shared an encouraging thought no matter the outcome. Jerry was also a supportive and loving father who taught his children the value of hard work, honesty, integrity, faith, loyalty, and love.

Jerry’s life was a testament to love and nowhere did that shine through more brightly than in his 54-year relationship with his adoring wife, Sharon. He was a passionate, trustworthy, honest and devoted husband. Their tender affection for one another was evident every day of their lives. His relationship with Sharon has and will continue to serve as a loving example to his entire family and beyond.

Survivors include his wife, Sharon; daughter, Sheila (Chris) Schindler-Ivens; sons, Michael (Annalisa) Schindler and Brian (Emily) Schindler; 9 loving grandchildren, Nicholas Schindler, Matthew Schindler, Bridget Schindler, Elizabeth Schindler, John Ivens, Charlie Ivens, Maximilian Schindler, Aaron Schindler and Bernadette Schindler; brothers, Vernon (Mary) Schindler and Kenneth (Ione) Schindler; numerous nieces and nephews; sisters-in-law, Diane Schindler and Yvonne (Chuck) Kryszczuk-Grimes; brother-in-law, Zig (Adra) Kryszczuk. Predeceased by his brother, Donald Schindler; and niece, Barbara Schindler. Special thanks to the doctors, nurses and other healthcare providers at Swedish American Hospital for their compassion and care.

Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. Saturday, February 8, at St. Stanislaus Church, 201 Buckbee Street, Rockford. Burial in Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Visitation from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, February 7, at Delehanty Funeral Home, Ltd., 401 River Lane, Loves Park, IL, with Rosary recited at 6:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established in Jerry’s name.