Tributes

Jerry Froida, a devoted family man, proud Navy sailor, skilled printer, and passionate outdoorsman, passed away on December 23 at the age of 91. Born on January 22, 1933, in Chicago, Illinois, Jerry was a man of courage, kindness, and steadfast love, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to his family, his country, and his passions. Jerry answered the call of duty, joining the Navy, where he was stationed in Key West, Florida on the USS Bushnell AS-15. His years of service were marked by bravery, camaraderie, and an unyielding commitment to protecting his country. He kept in touch with many of his fellow Navy service men and women throughout the years by attending several annual Bushnell Reunion throughout the U.S, and was active at the American Legion Allied Post 369 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 717. Following his Navy service, Jerry pursued a successful career as a printer, where his meticulous attention to detail and dedication to his craft earned him respect among colleagues and clients alike. He took pride in his work, and enjoyed showing his grandchildren the art of papermaking and ink printing after retirement. Family was the cornerstone of Jerry’s life. He was a loving husband to Mary (nee Petras) who precedes him in death, father to four daughters—Gail (Jodi), Connie, Erin (Russell), and Mary Jean (Tom) who precedes him in death— a proud Papa to three cherished grandchildren Belinda (Andy), Tommy, and Eric (Rebecca)--and a wonderful great-grandfather to Sebastian, step great-grandfather to Jacob and Connor, and to countless furry and scaly great-grandchildren. Whether it was coaching his daughters softball teams, teaching his grandchildren to cast their first fishing line, or taking care of his beloved animals, Jerry found his greatest joy in the moments spent with those he loved most. Outside of his Navy career and family life, Jerry found solace and excitement in fishing. Whether it was a quiet morning by the lake in Arkansas or a thrilling beach outing in Jekyll Island or Topsail Island, the water was his second home. Additionally, Jerry loved to spend time gardening, cooking, bowling, and reading the paper on Sunday mornings. He was also an avid baseball fan, rarely missing a Chicago White Sox or Chicago Cubs game on TV, and relished the simple pleasure of enjoying America’s pastime with his family. Jerry was a man of integrity, loyalty, and compassion, always ready to lend a helping hand or share a heartfelt laugh. His resilience and optimism touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know him. His love for life and family will be carried forward by all who knew and loved him. There will be a visitation Saturday, January 4, 2025 from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. The celebration of life service will begin at 12 p.m. at Memory Lane Memorial Park and Funeral Home 6305 W. Lincoln Hwy, Crown Point, IN 46307. Burial will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either the VFW or the American Legion, organizations to which Jerry devoted much of his time and love. Jerry, you will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Tributes

Jerry Froida Jr

January 22, 1933 - December 23, 2024