Gerald "Jerry" Hochberger

Gerald John "Jerry" Hochberger, 81, of Bartlett, passed away Monday, September 18, 2023. Jerry was born in Chicago on September 15, 1942 to Henry and Anne (nee Ewald) Hochberger. Kid brother to Bill, Eileen, and Virginia, he graduated from South Shore High School and enlisted in the US Navy. After four years of service he went to Iowa State University, graduating with a degree in Anthropology, and a long career at Eaton Corporation in Research and Development.

In 1978 he married Gretchen Crockett. This led to a long and rich marriage, with fun filled nicknames such as Zooey and Sweet Pea, Ole and Lena, and Don and Doris Dull, Detectives. Their marriage gave him four loving step-children Suzanne, Peter, Daniel, and Rebecca, and eventually grandchildren Rachael, Damon, Ryan, and Tristan, and even great grandchildren Ronan, Maura, Maeve, Declan, London, Ireland, and Clara. There was also a bouquet of nieces and nephews Betty, Charles, Ruth, Mark, Joan, Marianne, Ken, Steve, Karen, Laura, Betsey, and John.

Jer Bear loved family gatherings. Mention any activity and he'd always respond with "sounds like fun!". He had a real zest for life and joyfully returned to his Navy past when he and Gretchen bought an old power boat (The Nan Sea) and spent delightful years at marinas along Lake Michigan with dear friends Rick, Nancy, Kai, and Cindy. They were also deeply involved in many churches and church choirs, eventually finding their spiritual home at Calvary Episcopal Church in Batavia. Later in life his voyage became more rocky with his cancer diagnosis. This brought many challenges he met with steadfast courage. He was blessed with a sense of ridiculousness that swept aside daunting events. Jerry had a strong faith in the goodness of people, a solid belief that all he loved would ultimately be reunited, and that God has the last word.

Visitation Saturday, September 30 from 9:00am until time of memorial service11:00am at Calvary Episcopal Church 222 S. Batavia Ave, Batavia. Burial private at Bartlett Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the charity of one's choice are appreciated. Info www.countrysidefuneralhomes.com or (630)289-7575