Gerald F. Kotel

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Gerald Francis Kotel, a devoted family man, a proud member of Pipefitters Local 597, and a true friend to many. Gerald passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, leaving behind a legacy of generosity, warmth, and quiet strength.

Gerald was a man of many passions. A voracious reader, he always had a book close by and rarely met a crossword puzzle he couldn’t conquer. But above all, Gerald loved his family. His generosity knew no bounds, and his support was a constant source of strength. Whether with a wise word, a shared laugh, or simply being present, Gerald showed his love not in grand gestures but in everyday moments. And that’s where he’ll be missed the most– conversations during a long lunch, sitting outside in the sun, watching the Fighting Illini and the Bears, the notes of his daily musings and annotations of the newspaper, his frequent use of “apropos of nothing” (immediately followed by a wild story), the reminders of his “house rules,” the ways he let his grandkids break those rules, and every other moment he filled with his laughter and love.

Gerald is preceded in death by his beloved wife Loretta, son Rick, and grandson George. Gerald is survived by his children Karen (Nick), Larry, Jim (Jennifer), and Mary; his grandchildren Sarah, Nicholas (Karoline), Matthew (Marissa), Stephanie, Michael, Amanda, and Max; great-granddaughter Gabriella and a great-grandson set to arrive in July 2025; and three Boston Terriers he routinely spoiled with treats, Butch, Brady, and Leo.

In honoring Gerald’s life, we celebrate a man who worked hard, loved deeply, and gave fully. His impact on all who knew him will never be forgotten. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.