Gerard Jordan

1944 - 2016

Gerard Melvin Jordan

Born: September 2, 1944; in Stewartville, MN

Died: September 16, 2016; in Manteno, IL

Gerard "Jerry" "Jug" Melvin Jordan, 72, of Woodstock, IL died Friday September 16, 2016 at the Illinois Veterans' Home in Manteno, IL.

Gerard Jordan was born on September 2, 1944 in Stewartville, MN to Lawrence "Shorty" and DeVera Jordan. He married Lynda Virgina Haack on April 20, 1968. Jerry graduated from Stewartville High School and then joined the U.S. Navy at 18. He received an honorable discharge as a Bosun's Mate 3 in 1965. He attended college at Winona State University and received Master's Degrees from the University of Wisconsin Whitewater and University of Notre Dame. Jerry taught geography and economics for District 300 until his retirement in 2002. He was also the head of Dundee Crown's D.A.R.E. program for many years. He worked part-time at JC Penny's for many years. Jerry lived in Woodstock, IL from 1975 till present and was an active member of the American Legion.

Jerry, or Papa, loved spending time with his Grandson, Brady, or as he enjoyed calling him, Sweet Pea. He was an avid fan of both the Minnesota Vikings and the Minnesota Twins. He also enjoyed many outdoor activities such as golfing, fishing, gardening and hunting. Jerry loved to travel and always knew where a good video poker machine could be found. He would never shy away from a good cigar or a shot of Irish whiskey.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Lynda and their two sons - eldest, Anthony "Tony" (Molly) Jordan; grandson, Brady and granddaughter, Victoria of Lake in the Hills, IL and youngest, Douglas Jordan of Woodstock; siblings, Paul Jordan (Audrey) of Kasson, MN, David (Pat) Jordan of Winneconne, WI, Mary Lou (Ed) Rauen of Rochester, MN and Sandy (Jack) Jordan of Stewartville, MN.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, Lawrence "Shorty" and DeVera Jordan; two brothers, Dick Jordan and John "Jack" Jordan; and his sister, Jean (Sonny) Golberg.

A memorial is planned for October 29th from 1:00 to 4:00 pm at the VFW in Woodstock. There will be a short ceremony at 2:00pm and food will be provided. If you plan to attend, please come with a good story about Jerry to share.

In lieu of flowers, the Jordan Family suggests donations be sent to the Illinois Veterans' Home, Manteno.