Gerry was born in Racine on June 25, 1947, to the late Edmund and Helen Elizabeth (nee: Jensen) Stirle. A 1965 graduate of Washington Park High School, he went on to further his education at Gateway Technical College.Gerry proudly served his Country with the United States Army, 14th Combat Engineer Battalion, in the Vietnam War. Though he tried his hand at various entrepreneurial endeavours, his primary career focus was in the commercial/industrial water treatment industry where he worked himself up from the factory to a Vice-Presidency.
On October 14, 1989, he was united in marriage with Rusty (nee: Smith). Family always came first for Gerry. He was a loving, caring and supportive husband, father, grandfather and brother. They were truly the “sunshine of his life.” He enjoyed a large circle of friends and appreciated each and every one of them. Gerry was a kind man with a subtle sense of humor who took time for everyone who touched his life.
Gerry loved fishing. As far as he was concerned, you just couldn’t beat a good day on the lake. Unless, or course, the Packers were playing, or it was time to go on another travel adventure with Rusty. Music soothed Gerry’s soul, especially Bob Dylan. He also enjoyed fantasy football, gambling and his dogs -- Cody and Kramer.
Surviving are his loving wife of nearly 20 years, Rusty; children, Michelle (Randy) Eschmann, Michael Stirle, Erik (Carla) Stirle and Teresa (Rick Adams) Smith; grandchildren, Justin Olson; Emily & Allison Eschmann; Miranda & Mallory Stirle; brother, Mark (Kathy) Stirle; sister, Jan (John) Dumas; brother-in-law, James Coberly (Irene) Smith; sister-in-law, Barbara Smith; and by many special nieces, nephews, other relatives and close friends too numerous to mention by name.
In addition to his parents, Gerry was preceded in death by Rusty’s parents, Robert N. Smith; Fred and Rosalie Sommer.
Funeral services will be held at Mound Cemetery Chapel, 1147 West Blvd., on Friday, June 26, 2009, at 11:30 am with Rev. Jeffrey M. Thielen officiating. Interment, with military honors, will follow in Mound Cemetery. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Thursday from 4-7 p.m. In memory of Gerry, memorials to the Multiple Sclerosis Society have been suggested.
Many thanks to our family members and friends who supported Gerry during these past months. He appreciated everyone’s genuine concern and the many acts of kindness that followed. Gerry truly loved all of you!
Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home & Crematory
4600 County Line Rd., Racine 262-552-9000
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