In Loving Memory of Gerald “Jerry” Robert Gesiakowski

Gerald Robert Gesiakowski, lovingly known as Jerry, passed away on August 12, 2026, at the age of 82. He was born on July 9, 1944, and lived a life filled with family, friendship, hard work, laughter, and plenty of good times.

Jerry was the husband of Claryce Guarrera Gesiakowski and was proceeded in death by his first wife, Mary Gesiakowski, who passed away on July 3, 2012. He is survived by his identical twin brother, Larry (Cheryl) Gesiakowski.

He was the father of Diane (Dan) Nowaczyk and Robert (Lisa) Gesiakowski and bonus dad to Amy (Chris) Simeone, F.J. (Lisa) Guarrera, and Alison (Tim) Russell.

Jerry was grandfather to Clayton (Bianca) Nowaczyk, Dana (Nathan) Dollinger, Carly (Luke) Barkowski, Paul Nowaczyk, and Kelly Nowaczyk, and bonus grandfather to Nick and Alex Simeone, Trip and Jenna Guarrera, and Kristian and Kolin Hovda.

He was also great grandfather to Brenna Barkowski, Peter and Ava Nowaczyk, Harper Dollinger, and John Barkowski.

A longtime Chicagoan, Jerry worked hard to support his family as the Union Organizer for Retail Clerks Union. He was dedicated to his work and took pride in providing for his family. His work as a union organizer was more than simply a job, it reflected his strong sense of fairness and his belief in standing up for people who might not otherwise have a voice. After retiring, Jerry moved to Fort Myers, Florida, where he enjoyed a more relaxed pace of life. He loved golf, tennis, fishing, card games, and chess. He also enjoyed gambling and was always willing to take a chance. A true Chicago sports fan, Jerry was an avid Chicago White Sox and Chicago Bears fan, carrying his love of Chicago and its teams with him throughout his life.

Jerry will be remembered for his humor, his stories, his competitive spirit, and the many interests and pastimes that brought him enjoyment throughout his life. He leaves behind family, friends, and many memories that will remain a part of those who knew him.

Services will be held Thursday August 27 at 2:00 pm at St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Ft. Myers, FL.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.