Gerald "Jerry" Dennis Groskinsky

Gerald “Jerry” Groskinsky, 71, passed away Sunday, November 17, 2024, surrounded by his loving wife and children.

Born February 14, 1953, in Harvard, IL to Raymond and Doris (Johnson) Groskinsky, Jerry was known as a hardworking, charismatic man who preferred the outdoors.  Jerry was active in Boy Scouts of America obtaining the highest rank of Eagle Scout on February 1, 1970.  He served as a Scoutmaster for Troop 170 and Troop Committee for Troop 171.  Jerry worked for Union Pacific Railroad for 33 years, retiring in 2013.  He married Barbara Hill on February 14, 1988 and raised five wonderful children.  One of Jerry’s greatest joys was spending time in nature with his grandchildren.  Jerry’s family will miss most his playful banter and sense of humor.  Jerry was a friend to anyone and everyone, very socially outgoing.  He was a dedicated volunteer and selfless giver. 

Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Barb; five children Renae (Lee) Peters, Melissa (Steve) Mirabile, Rachael (Rodney Rodriguez) Rife, Ashley (Jordon) McWilliams, and Michael (Taylor) Groskinsky and 15 wonderful grandchildren.  He is also survived by siblings Norma (Chuck) Lockwood, Marcia (Glenn) Hanson, Joanne Melby-Hallberg, Ray (Karen) Groskinsky, and Dale (Susie) Groskinsky, as well as many nieces and nephews.  Jerry is also survived by Barb’s siblings, Pat Renaldi, Richard Hill, Ruth (Brian) Lundgren, and Carol (Jeff) Schnulle.  He was proceeded in death by his father, mother, step-father Clayton Anderson, Barb’s parents and his sister-in-law, Paula.

In lieu of flowers, please plant a tree in his name or donate to Parkinson’s Research.  A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 7, 2024 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 504 E Diggins Street, Harvard, IL.  Visitation will be held at 10:00 am, with a Celebration to follow at 11:00 am.

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