Jerome Shinkevich

Jerome C. “Jerry” Shinkevich died July 13, 2023 at home with his wife by his side.

Jerry was born on June 13, 1931 in Kewanee. His parents were John and Midge (Vale) Shinkevich. He graduated from Kewanee High School and joined the US Navy, serving his country for four years. He was stationed in San Diego, CA aboard the US Spangler. After his release from the service, he returned to Kewanee.

Jerry enjoyed coaching girls softball when his daughters were in school. He was a great Cubs and Bears fan. He looked forward to playing golf on Tuesday’s and Thursdays with his friends in the senior league at Barker Park.

Jerry worked for Richards Dairy delivering milk in the early hours of the day. He also was a 7-up distributor, he owned his own truck. He then worked for C.L. VanDeVoorde’s as a salesman. For a short time after retirement, he worked for Jeffries as a dispatcher. Jerry was the City Commissioner for a few years. He always said his job was made easy for him because of the people who worked for him.

Jerry married Joan, the love of his life. They were married 34 years with true love and happiness together. After retirement Jerry and Joan spent many years in Florida for the winter months. Jerry played softball in a 55 and older league where he was voted rookie of the year. Jerry was a fun-loving man, always a good word for everyone and would give a helping hand if asked.

Jerry is survived by his wife Joan and her children his four daughters Janet (Mark) Holtshcult and children, Jayne (TJ) T’Jardes and children, Jennifer (Jens) Vidkjer and son, Jill (Greg) DeKeyser and children. Jerry had 12 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and a brother Mickey, who he missed every day.

Jerry is at peace now, to my friends and family, hug the ones you love today.

There will be no calling hours or funeral per Jerry’s request. There will be a celebration of life in the near future.