Jerry Lynn Wynkoop

Beloved Dad, grandpa, sibling and friend, Jerry Lynn Wynkoop passed away on October 18, 2024 . He was born on April 30, 1952 in Crown Point, IN to Virgil and Bessie Wynkoop. The youngest of four children, he enjoyed playing outside with his older siblings. Studious and hard-working, he attended Purdue Calumet for accounting and earned his degree there, making the Dean's list.

He worked for many years at LTV and later ISG/Mittal Steel, a loyal and diligent employee all his days. He eventually earned the title of Controller. He married Therese Foote on May 17, 1980 at Queen of Apostles Church in Riverdale, IL. The family lived in Hammond, IN and later Schererville, IN, where they resided for 22 years. Jerry bought and refurbished multiple properties that he rented out in several communities, and cared for on his own for decades. He was a dedicated member of St. Michael's parish community, where he counted the Sunday collection, volunteered for fundraisers and supported in many other ways through his talents. He loved his annual trips to Las Vegas with his friend Jim, the Chicago Bears and White Sox, jogging, karate and and hanging out at home eating all of Terri's delicious cooking. He was an incredibly dedicated father to his daughter, Krissy, teaching her everything from how to ride a bike to how to drive a car, to name just a few.

Jerry often visited Chicago with Terri, or on his own, to spend time with their daughter. Together, he and his daughter took meditation classes, went to concerts and restaurants, and ran many races, including the 2005 Chicago Marathon.

In 2012, Jerry and Terri sold their custom-built cherished home without hesitation to move to Chicago and be there for their daughter as she welcomed their first grandchild, Caleb, into the world, and later his granddaughter Aurora. He was the official grandpa escort for both his grandkids for many years, ensuring they got everywhere safely and on time. He also enjoyed learning about investing and doing everything he could to provide for his family. Jerry and Terri lived in a two-flat building with their daughter's family in the Lincoln Square neighborhood of Chicago for 12 years.

When Terri first developed dementia, Jerry honed his cooking and cleaning skills and stepped in even more to help with his grandchildren as he cared for his ailing wife. He did this with diligence until his passing in October 2024. Jerry had likely been suffering for a long time, but wanted to spend every last minute with his family.

He is survived by his daughter, Kristin Marie Novy, son-in-law, Joshua Novy, grandson Caleb Jerry, 13, and granddaughter Aurora Marie, 9; and his eldest sister, Charlene Kittell (Leon). His memory will not be forgotten for a single day.

Following Therese and Jerry's funeral on May 15th at 10:30 a.m. at St. Michael's in Schererville, IN., there will be an interment for Jerry and Terri at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens also in Schererville. A celebration of life will follow at Teibel's.

Please visit Therese's obituary at: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/chicago-il/therese-wynkoop-12869049