Gerald (Jerry) Wayne Brent, Sept. 24th 1943 - Dec 9th 2024

Gerald (Jerry) Wayne Brent passed away December 9th 2024, at The University of Chicago Medicine. He passed surrounded by his wife Gretchen, daughters Elizabeth and Melissa, and grandsons Xavier and Hans(III) at his bedside.

Jerry is preceded in death by his loving parents Marion and Leroy Brent. He is survived by his wife of 57yrs: Gretchen Brent, Daughter : Karen Diercks, Daughter: Elizabeth Schaetzke and Son In-Law Hans(II) Schaetzke, Daughter: Melissa Subramani. Grandchildren: Xavier, Hans(III), Allison, Gabriel Schaetzke, Grace King, Eli Subramani , Daniel and Lauren Diercks. Siblings: Marilee Wilke, Susanne Brent, and William Brent.

Jerry was born September 24th 1943, in Chicago, IL -the second child of four. In his youth he enjoyed ice skating, dancing, and restoring cars. By high school he was already a skilled craftsman and building furniture for his mother. Charming, handsome and strong he quickly developed a skill set that would last him a lifetime. Jerry was a Veteran that served during the Cold War. After serving he came back to the states and married his lifetime sweetheart on April 6th, 1968.  In 1972, he became a baptized servant of Jehovah God. He was an active minister for over 50 years.

Jerry had an incredible work ethic, at the age of 52 he retired from General Motors with 31 years of outstanding service. In 2018, he retired from Walmart with over 20 years of service. He was a constant role model to his co-workers, children, and grandchildren. Always loyal, patient, humble and self sacrificing.

In his later years, he greatly enjoyed gardening with his wife and caring for his grandchildren. They were a constant source of joy within his life. A nurturing father and grandfather, he always found time to share with his family. He stayed busy building, fixing, or working on one of the many projects his wife could dream up. He may have been a man of few words, but his actions spoke louder than any volume. When he did speak, it was always something good. “Make yourself useful” was some of his best advice. He lived his life by actions, a true reflection of what a man and father should be.

He was a man who couldn’t resist a good cup of coffee, paired with a donut.

Jerry will forever be remembered as the most loving Husband, Father, and Grandfather. We will never stop loving you. 

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