Gerald John Gross

Gerald John Gross was born in Racine, Wisconsin on September 3, 1934 to Alfred and Frances (Vanderheyden) Gross. He was brought into the waters of baptism on September 16, 1934 at Old St. Mary’s Parish, Racine. He was the second of five children. His family were members of St. John Nepomuk Parish in Racine. He attended St. John Nepomuk grade school and St. Catherine High School in Racine and graduated in 1952. He then attended Loras College in Dubuque, IA for two years before enlisting in the United States Army where he served for three years. He was stationed in Hawaii where he fell in love with the game of golf. He lived in Schofield Barracks where From Here to Eternity was filmed; one of his favorite movies. He graduated from Marquette University in 1966.

After the service he met Cathleen Ann Crossin at Marquette University. They were united in the Sacrament of Marriage on August 17, 1963 at St. Mark’s Catholic Church in Kenosha, WI. Together they raised 4 children in Racine. Jerry was a self-employed independent insurance agent for over 50 years. He was president of Racine Kenosha Life Underwriters for two years in 1982-83 which he was very proud.

He was a member of Meadowbrook Country Club in Racine and was an avid golfer. While he was a regular member of the Wednesday men’s group, he most enjoyed golf when he would play alone on the golf course. He was very proud of his hole-in-one in 1992.

Jerry was a devout Catholic who attended Sunday Mass every week and Wednesdays during the season of Lent, and often took walks while praying the Rosary. He was a member of St. Rita Parish in Racine for over 40 years. He was a member of the Holy Name Society. Jerry always had a passion for the truth, had great love for his fellow man and the common good.

During the last 11 years of his life he was humbled by suffering a debilitating stroke. He pressed on as best he could, however it was a suffering for him and his wife, Cathleen, who cared for him. His family will deeply miss him and prays that he is now at rest with Jesus, Mary, and all the angels and saints.

Jerry is survived by his wife Cathleen of 53 years and his four children: Alan (Paula) Gross of Chicago, IL Jeanmarie (Chris) Graziano of Slinger, WI, Karen (Scott) Kutac of Bulverde, TX, and Fr. Robert Gross of Calmar, IA. Ten grandchildren: Abraham Graziano, Jonah Gross, Jack Graziano, Ally Gross, Ayla Graziano, John Kutac, Natalie Kutac, Madeline Kutac, Maria Graziano, and Isaac Gross. He also is survived by his siblings: Richard (Peggy) Gross, Marilyn (Thomas) Davis, Janet (Charles) Haas; and brother-in-law, David “Fritz” Lepow. He is also survived by godchildren, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Francis, and his sister, Diane Lepow.

Visitation will be on Sunday, September 11th at St. Rita Church, 4339 Douglas Avenue, Racine, WI from 4:00-6:00 p.m. The Rosary will be prayed at 3:45 p.m. before the Visitation and conclude with the Vigil Service led by Deacon Greg Petro at 6:00 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, September 12th at 2:00 p.m. at St. Rita Church, Racine. Fr. Robert Gross will be main celebrant of the Mass. There will be an additional visitation Monday at the church from 1:00 p.m. until time of Mass at 2:00 p.m. Interment will be at Holy Cross Cemetery, Hwy 32. Memorials to the Seminarian Educational Fund Archdiocese of Dubuque or to the Alpha Center of Racine or to St. Rita Parish have been suggested.

Jesus, I trust in you! Jesus Mercy!