Gerard R. "Jerry" Vahey

Gerard "Jerry" R. Vahey, 84, of Lake Bluff, IL passed away peacefully on May 1, 2025. He was born the son of William and Mary Vahey on March 9, 1941 in Park Ridge, IL. Raised in Park Ridge and Lake Forest, Jerry graduated from Loyola Academy and went on to attend Xavier University.
After serving his country in the U.S. Marine Corps, Jerry began his career in sales, where his affable and outgoing personality enabled him to excel. He subsequently founded and served as President of MPV, Inc., a manufacturer and distributor of specialized cable ties and cable/metal crimping devices.
Jerry was well known throughout the community for his kind and good-natured heart, gregarious attitude, infectious laugh, and love of sports. He was an avid golfer and platform (paddle) tennis player, where he basked in the camaraderie of others. He was truly a friend to everyone he met and his zest for life was apparent to all. He was devout in his faith as a lifelong member of the Church of St. Mary's and loved reminiscing about his cherished trips to Ireland.
Despite his work and numerous hobbies/sports, his biggest passion was unquestionably his family. Jerry was an exceptional father to his children. He dedicated endless amounts of time, attention and enthusiasm to their sports/activities, and was a consistent presence in their lives providing boundless encouragement. He was also a proud, loving grandfather, affectionately referred to as Papa, who adored being around his eight grandchildren.
Jerry is survived by his former wife Kathryn "Kathe" Vahey; children Megann (Derek) Rundell, Patrick Vahey and Ryan (Morley) Vahey; grandchildren Connor, Kacky and Finn Rundell, Paige, Lily and Hannah Vahey, and Will and Annie Vahey; siblings Mary Jane (the late Joseph) Roddy, Peggy (Jim) Garland, Dan (Cathy) Vahey, and Terry (Ron) Neville; and by many loving nieces, nephews and extended family.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother William "Bill" Vahey and nephew Kevin Vahey.
A funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at 10am at the Church of St. Mary, 175 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest, IL. The service will be livestreamed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-SPHUnSwu8.Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Catholic Charities Meals on Wheels at https://www.catholiccharities.net/senior-home-delivered-meals-meals-on-wheels/.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to Reuland & Turnbough Funeral Directors of Lake Forest, (847) 234-9649 or www.RTfunerals.com.