Gerald “Jerry” Zanke, 92, of River Forest, died on April 28, 2025. Born on Jan. 19, 1933, a Chicago native, he was a graduate of Loyola Academy College Prep and Loyola University where he met his future wife, Carol. After serving in the U.S. Army, the newlyweds settled in River Forest in the late 1950s where they remained. He was an avid fisherman who for several decades fished the lakes in and around Iron River, Michigan. His two longtime passions at home were playing his guitar and raising orchids. In retirement, he proudly volunteered at Edward Hines VA Hospital for 25 years.
Jerry was the husband of the late Carol (Noel) for 67 years; the father of Mark (Lisa), Paul (Deb) and the late Gary; grandfather of Austin, Adam and Dylan (Zoe); sister of Marilyn Keblusek; and the uncle of John, Thomas, Michael, Mary Clare, Christina and Karen.
Memorial visitation is Tuesday, May 6, at St. Luke Catholic Church where a Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m.
Arrangements were handled by Zimmerman-Harnett Funeral Home in Forest Park.
