Jerald “Jerry” Scherrer, loving husband, cherished father, beloved brother, and extraordinary friend to many, passed away on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at the age of 75.

Jerry’s presence transformed every room he entered. He touched the lives of countless people across multiple generations, leaving behind a tremendous void in the hearts of his family and friends. He entertained endlessly with his stories, his passion for cooking, and unforgettable sense of humor. In a sometimes dark world, Jerry was a constant light, and he will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Jerry was born on January 3, 1951, in Princeton, Indiana, to Madge and Frank Scherrer. He grew up playing baseball, keeping pace with his two older brothers, James (“Jim”) and Joseph (“Joe”), while lovingly teasing his younger sisters, Susan and MaryAnne. Family was central to Jerry’s life, and he remained very close with his siblings through his final days.

He went on to study architecture at the University of Cincinnati before moving to Chicago, Illinois. Early in his career, he met the love of his life, Betsy, through industry connections and events. Together, they built a life in Evanston, Illinois, where they raised their two children, Clayton and Casey.

Jerry co-founded the architectural firm Rodie Scherrer Associates, leaving a lasting mark on projects throughout the Chicagoland area. Among his most meaningful professional accomplishments was his work on Northwestern Hospital’s facilities, for which he received numerous awards alongside his talented team. Over a career spanning more than 40 years, Jerry devoted himself to improving healthcare environments, positively impacting the experiences of thousands of patients. He was widely regarded as one of Chicago’s most accomplished healthcare architects.

Beyond his professional life, Jerry was deeply committed to his community. He was an active parent-volunteer at Evanston Township High School, serving as President of the Booster Club as well as a member of the Foundation Board. His dedication to service was a defining part of who he was: always contributing, always giving back, and always making a difference in the lives of others.

Jerry was also an exceptional coach and mentor, not only to his own children but to hundreds of young athletes. Through the Evanston Baseball and Softball Association, where he served for many years as commissioner, he shared his passion for the game. He coached his daughter’s fastpitch travel team and later became the JV softball coach at ETHS. Coaching was, in his words, “my calling.” He was devoted to his players and committed to helping young people grow both on and off the field. Remarkably, he remembered every player he ever coached.

Jerry loved camping and the outdoors. With both of his children involved in scouting, he became a scoutmaster, guiding many scouts through their badges and leading memorable trips, including a cherished journey through Minnesota’s Boundary Waters. He found peace in nature, whether watching a rainstorm roll in, admiring a sunset, or spending evenings by the backyard firepit surrounded by family and friends.

He was also a longtime volunteer with the Woman’s Club of Evanston, contributing for decades to the annual WCE Revue by building stages and props, and even redesigning the ballroom elevator space to improve accessibility and inclusivity. He was known for his bright spirit and his big, hearty laugh.

If there was an opportunity to volunteer in Evanston, Jerry was there. He built countless friendships across many communities, and his legacy of generosity, humor, and service will endure in all who knew him.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Betsy Scherrer; his son, Clayton Scherrer, and daughter-in-law Cristina Nelson (and his soon-to-be granddaughter); and his daughter, Casey LeGalley (nee Scherrer), son-in-law Andrew LeGalley, and grandson Bruce.

Please do not send flowers. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Jerry’s name to the ETHS Foundation (https://ethsfoundation.wpengi…) where he served as a dedicated board member for many years. Contributions help enrich the ETHS high school experience beyond the means of conventional public funding, a cause that meant a great deal to Jerry and his family.

A memorial celebration of Jerry’s life, filled with laughter, stories, and the spirit he brought to every moment, will be held later this summer. All who knew him, met him, and enjoyed him are warmly invited to attend. Additional details will be shared soon.

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