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Gerald "Jerry" Clement Matyus, born on July 28, 1937, in Chicago, Illinois, passed away peacefully on November 15, 2025, in Libertyville, Illinois, after suffering a stroke. He spent most of his life in the Chicago area—first in Chicago, then Mundelein, and finally Saddlebrook in Grayslake—building a life defined by love, leadership, humor, and an unwavering spirit of adventure.Jerry was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 60 years, Barbara Jeree; his older brother, Edward; and his sister, Margaret. He is survived by his eldest son, David, and his life partner, Linda Tigert; his daughter, Susan, and her husband, Mark Ehrlich; and his son, James, and his wife, Michele Arnold-Matyus. He also has three grandsons in Idaho. He is survived by his nieces Joni Matyus Modaff and her husband, Christopher; Sharon Matyus Leal and her husband, Julian; and his nephew and Godson, Dan Matyus. Jerry adored them deeply and was grateful to have them in his life. They brought him laughter and lasting connection to family traditions, and he will always be their “Uncle Jerry!”A proud graduate of Western Illinois University, Jerry attended on a basketball scholarship and was a dedicated member of the TKE fraternity. He later earned his Master’s Degree in Education at Northern Illinois University. Jerry spent many years shaping young lives as a Physical Education teacher at Deer Path Junior High School in Lake Forest. He went on to become both the Wrestling Coach and Athletic Director, roles in which he inspired countless students. One of his proudest professional achievements was founding The Deer Path Junior High WRESTLING TOURNAMENT that continues today—more than 50 years later—a testament to his commitment to youth athletics.Jerry and Barbara shared a rich life together filled with travel, humor, and countless stories, including their famous misadventure of getting lost inside a pyramid in Egypt. They introduced their children to the beauty of America through summer camping trips that evolved from a simple tent to motorhome adventures. Together, they explored nearly every state, creating a lifetime of cherished memories. They also shared a deep love of the arts, attending the Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire for more than 40 years.Jerry loved hunting—not so much for the harvest, but for the camaraderie. He loved all things sports. He was a loyal Chicago White Sox and Bears fan, cheering them on with equal parts passion and patience. He relished telling his favorite stories: how he once caught a hockey puck in his mouth as an Andy Frane usher at the old Chicago Stadium, cracking all his teeth; and how he guided a young Vince Vaughn away from wrestling and toward the acting/drama room, adding with a quip, “and the rest is history.”Jerry's patriotism ran deep. Though he did not serve in the military, he honored those who did and loved the 4th of July parades, Memorial Day, and Veterans Day.After retirement, Jerry attended local sporting events and embraced life as a Florida snowbird. He became a beloved and active member of the Moose Club in Venice, Florida, and brought his trademark enthusiasm wherever he went—organizing tennis teams, golf outings, pickleball games, barbecues, and pool parties for his condo community. He especially enjoyed golf, not only playing it but also rescuing stray balls that landed on his lawn or rolled into the nearby pond. Over the years, he cleaned and saved more than 2,500 golf balls, a point of pride and humor among his friends.Jerry had a legendary sweet tooth, never one to pass up dessert—especially if it was topped with lots of whipped cream. A devout man with strong spirituality, Jerry was a dedicated member of St. Mary’s of the Annunciation Church in Mundelein (Fremont Center), where his faith remained a steady foundation throughout his life.The family expresses deep gratitude to the compassionate staff at Advocate Condell Medical Center, Avantara-Libertyville, and Serenity Hospice for their care during his final days.The family would also like to thank neighbor and friend, Mrs. Maureen McDonald for all her support, visits and prayers.A Celebration of Life will be held after the holidays.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Stroke Association at https://www.stroke.org/en/

Gerald Clement Matyus

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