John Gerardo Weinstein

Gerardo Weinstein, born January 19, 1924, in Moenchengladbach, Germany, passed away peacefully on December 26, 2025, a few weeks away from 102.
Gerardo grew up during the rise of Nazi Germany. In 1933, when Adolf Hitler became Chancellor, his father, Arno Weinstein -foreseeing the grave danger ahead-led the family out of Germany and ultimately to Lima, Peru, helping nearly 95 relatives and friends escape Europe. Gerardo was raised in Lima, where he left school at a young age to work and support his family, beginning a lifelong path of perseverance and self-education.
He began his career in South America working in the cotton business and later moved to Dallas, working at the Dallas Cotton Exchange. When the cotton business became more speculative, he decided to invest in real estate where he built a successful career in commercial real estate. A self-taught and avid reader, Gerardo was known for his intellect, curiosity, and love of thoughtful discussion, particularly about world affairs.
In 1952, Gerardo married Helga Wolff, who was also born in Germany. Their marriage was a remarkable love story-one of devotion, partnership, and joy-that spanned 73 years until Helga's passing in February 2025. She was his rock and his constant companion, and together they built a life defined by love, shared purpose, and doing nearly everything side by side.
Gerardo was preceded in death by his beloved brother, Herbert Weinstein, who along with his wife, Pudgy Weinstein were an important and cherished presence throughout his life. He is survived by his three daughters, Heddy Roth, Patricia Stein, and Anita Weinstein, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. He was a source of inspiration not only to his immediate family but also to his extended family, including his niece, Madeline Harford and her husband, Bill Harford, and his nephew, Jeff Weinstein and his wife, Kyle Weinstein, and all their children and grandchildren, who looked to him with admiration and love.
An enthusiastic traveler, philanthropist, and volunteer, Gerardo and Helga established the Gerardo and Helga Philanthropic Fund and supported many charitable causes, including a lifelong devotion to the State of Israel. In lieu of flowers, you can donate to this at ttps://djcf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=2547.
Known for his warmth, generosity, impeccable dress, and sharp mind, Gerardo enjoyed playing bridge and remained active until shortly before his passing.
There will be a memorial service on Wednesday, December 31, at 11 am at Temple Emanuel.
He will be remembered with love, gratitude, and deep admiration by all who knew him.