MENDOTA – Jerome C. “Jerry” Henkel, 76, of Mendota, passed away unexpectedly on April 20, 2024.

Visitation will be Friday, April 26 from 4-7 p.m. with a 4 p.m. rosary at Wasmer Funeral Home, Mendota. Mass of Christian burial will be Saturday, April 27 at 11 a.m. at Holy Cross Catholic Church. Rev. Jeff Windy will officiate. Burial will be private.

Jerry was born Aug. 25, 1947, in Streator, to Robert and Lorraine (Hochstatter) Henkel. He graduated Mendota High School in 1965.

He will be forever missed by his children, Dea Karns, Kory (Bill) Wood, Ron (Carol) Karns, Ryan Karns, Jacob (Rebecca) Henkel; 12 grandchildren, several great grandchildren; and five sisters, Maureen (Bob) Weber of Sublette, Sue (Lindy) Hahn of Peru, Jeanne (Gale) Schlesinger of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Pam Henkel of Mendota and Shelly Henkel of Mendota.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Jerry worked 38 years for Sam Beetz and Sons. An airplane enthusiast for years, Jerry owned different planes, and spent as much time flying as he could. He particularly loved spending time with family and friends. Jerry's first line of defense was his subtle sense of humor, a self-defense skill acquired from having five sisters. He had a twinkle in his eyes and a smile that could light a room. Jerry made friends wherever he went; he never knew a stranger.

Pallbearers will be Lindsay Catalanello, Jessica Dawkins, Jamie Dold, Dinelle Freschi, Adam Frey, Michael Kawell, Addy Kerr, Aaron Wood and Andrew Wood.

Memorials may be to the donor’s choice. Condolences may be left at wasmerfuneralhome.com.