Gerald Leo Hinrichs

A talented and passionate musician, Jerry spent his early years as a drummer, playing with two popular 1960s Chicago area garage rock bands: the Valiants and The Males. Performing at clubs all over Chicagoland for a few years, the Males even opened for The Who at the Cellar in Arlington Heights the summer of 1967.

Jerry owned Plan Corporation, a business specializing in the design and fabrication of quick service retail interiors, providing solutions in cabinetry, refrigeration, food service equipment, and shelving all over the upper mid-west. He later went on to serve as Director at Katharine Manor Apartments in Naperville Illinois, where he provided compassionate leadership and personalized support to the residents with physical disabilities, as well as their families and staff, helping foster a warm and caring community.

Outside of work, Jerry enjoyed fishing, golf, and sports. He was an avid Chicago fan — watching the Bears, Bulls, and Blackhawks on TV was one of his great pleasures and greater sources of frustration. Most of his fishing took place on Gilbert Lake in Wild Rose, Wisconsin, where he pulled many walleye, bass and northern pike out of the water. The Cabin on Gilbert Lake held a special place in his heart, with many wonderful memories of great times with family and friends. Jerry was also an animal lover he especially loved dogs and affectionately tolerated cats.

Jerry is survived by his cherished wife, Elizabeth Jane Wine; his brother, Mickey Finn, and his sister, Denise Ethridge; his stepchildren, Cindy (Bernie) Hennessy, Mark Wine (Deb Koltermann), Chris (Jodi) Wine, and Todd (Elaine) Wine; eight grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his beloved brother Tommy and his beloved grandson, Sergeant Jack Hennessy.

A memorial service will be planned in the near future. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Katharine Manor (https://donate.stripe.com/14k3eWgnt0ql6J26oo).

Jerry will be remembered for his kind heart, loving soul, dedication to his work, and his devotion to his family. He will be deeply missed.