Jerry L. Karr

Jerry Lee Karr, 82, of Harvard, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, January 20, 2024.

Jerry was born on February 10, 1941, in Vandalia, Illinois, the son of William and Theresa (Heneger) Karr. Jerry had various jobs over his career, including time as an electrical engineer, forklift mechanic, and maintenance. It was while he was working at Techalloy in Union that he met his future wife, Valerie. The pair were wed on May 10, 1980, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Harvard, Illinois. They had so much fun together over the years.

Jerry was mechanically inclined and naturally good at fixing anything metal or that had an engine. Jerry could be stubborn, but he had the biggest heart and would give the shirt off his back or his last 20 dollars to someone in need. He had a special place in his heart for animals, especially cats.  Jerry enjoyed watching old black and white films, fishing at the lake house up north, and going to the casinos. He loved scratching off lottery tickets, morning coffee with the guys, and cars. Jerry had a dry sense of humor, in which the grin on his face said it all. He was challenged with several health issues the past few years, but he remained a fighter and overcame many of those setbacks.    

Jerry is survived by the love of his life and soulmate of 43 years Valerie A. Karr; and daughter Janet (Carl) Gajus.

He was preceded in death by his parents William and Theresa Karr; father and mother-in-law Pete and Arlene Smith; and brother-in-law Jeff Smith.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, from 11 AM until the 12 PM funeral service with Rev. Paul Bawden to officiate at Saunders & McFarlin Funeral Home, 107 W. Sumner St., Harvard, IL 60033.

Friends and family may sign the online guestbook at www.saundersmcfarlin.net

Call Saunders & McFarlin Funeral Home for more info at 815-943-5400.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.