Jerome A. “Jerry” Kratzert, age 72, a longtime resident of Plainfield, Illinois.

Jerome A. “Jerry” Kratzert, age 72, a longtime resident of Plainfield, Illinois, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, February 27, 2026. Born on November 16, 1953, in St. Louis, Missouri, Jerry lived a life defined by devotion to family, a strong work ethic, and an infectious joy that left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Jerry was the beloved husband of Katie Kratzert (née Ryan), his partner in life and love for more than 46 years. The two were married on October 6, 1979, and together built a home filled with laughter, music, and unwavering support for one another. Above all else, Jerry was a family man. He was the loving father of Emily (Greg Kalina) Ragano of Oswego, Illinois, and Kelly (Josh) Shaw of Plainfield, Illinois, and the proud, adoring grandfather of Kaylin, Ashlyn, Gavin, Nolan, and Payton Ragano, and Audrina, Ava, and Ezra Shaw. Being “Pop Jerry” was one of his greatest joys, and he cherished every moment spent making memories with his grandchildren.

He was the devoted son of the late Philip and Doris (née Thurmer) Kratzert and the cherished son-in-law of the late Thomas and Dorothy Ryan. He was preceded in death by his sisters-in-law, Peggy Intravia and Nancy Ryan.

Jerry is also survived by his loving siblings: Judy Hummel; Jeanne (Joe) Abernathy; Joyce (Steve) Chandler; Janet (Pete) Strader; and Joanie Kraus. He will be fondly remembered by his brother-in-law Kelly (Melanie Tucker) Ryan; his beloved aunt Rosemary “Posie” Perry; and many dear cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and lifelong friends.

Raised in St. Louis, Jerry was a proud 1971 graduate of St. Louis University High School (SLUH). He went on to earn his degree in Business Administration from Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas, in 1975. Shortly thereafter, Jerry began a long and successful career with Swift-Eckrich Company, later Smithfield Foods. Through dedication, integrity, and leadership, he rose to the role of Senior Director of Operations and Logistics before retiring in 2020 after 45 years of service. He took great pride in his work and the relationships he built along the way.

Jerry’s life took him and his family to many places, including Kansas City, Fremont, St. James, Carol Stream, Topeka, and Naperville, before settling in Plainfield in 2006. No matter where he lived, Jerry made every place feel like home.

Known for his larger-than-life personality, Jerry was truly one of a kind. He found happiness in fishing, boating, grilling, gardening, tie-dying, and transforming his home each year with legendary Halloween decorations. Family time at the lake house and dancing to his beloved jukebox in the Plainfield home created some of the most treasured memories for those he loved.

Jerry was always the life of the party. With unforgettable dance moves, whether strumming an imaginary air guitar or breaking out the funky chicken, he made sure everyone was smiling. Over the years, he earned many affectionate nicknames, including Eight Ball, Krappy, Jeromee My Homeme from the Show Me, Captain Jerry, and Pop Fairy, each a reflection of the humor, heart, and joy he brought into the lives of others.

While his passing leaves a profound emptiness, Jerry’s laughter, love, and unwavering devotion to his family will live on forever. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A celebration of Jerry’s life will be held on Sunday, April 19, 2026, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at: Warehouse 109 14903 S. Center Street, Unit 109 Plainfield, IL 60544.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Jerry’s name are appreciated to support his son-in-law, Josh Shaw, who is living with ALS. Donations may be made to Kelly Shaw via: Zelle: Kkratze2@gmail.com, Venmo: Kkratze2@gmail.com

Arrangements are entrusted to Overman-Jones Funeral Home & Cremation Services: 15219 S. Joliet Rd., Plainfield, IL 60544.

For more information, please call (815) 436-9221 or visit overman-jones.com