Gerald W. "Jerry" Kutas' Obituary
Gerald W. Kutas, 87, passed away on January 31, 2023.
A Chicago native born on the south side, graduate of the Jesuit School System and St. Ignatius High School. Jerry joined the Navy at 17 years old to become active as a submariner and earned his dolphins during the Korean War. He was employed by UPS, and then joined with Federal Express during the early 70’s. After retirement from Fed Ex, he began his entrepreneurial endeavors including opening OG’s lawn mower shop, bike sales and repair business in the heart of Germantown, and second bike shop and John Deere dealership in Midtown. Jerry eventually went to serve the Catholic Church of the Holy Spirit as the buildings and grounds manager, working tirelessly to develop the security and safety department. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Holy Spirit Council. His attention to detail and love for the church family lasted for 23 years, where he served with several different pastors.
He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Charlene Kutas. Jerry and Charlene met in Chicago, IL on a blind date and raised their family in Chicago then Germantown, TN. Together they traveled the world, enjoyed timeless memories on family trips, and particularly loved Sedona, Arizona.
In addition to his wife Charlene, he is also survived by his family including, daughter Laurel Gennett, and two sons, Dr. Tim Kutas (Robin), and Dr. Patrick Kutas (Suzanne); loving grandfather to ten grandchildren, Danielle Gennett, Barrett Kutas, Chandler Johnston, Dr. Sarah Kutas, Will Kutas, Audie Kate Todd, Mary Margaret Kutas, Elizabeth Kutas, Patrick Kutas, Jr., and Hayes Kutas. Jerry taught his grandchildren how to treat people right, what work ethic means, and was always available to make his signature sandwiches for everyone. He was the person to come to anytime for great advice and interesting stories.
Jerry’s varied interests included many hours of watching Chicago Bears football, rose gardening, and golfing. He coached his sons in youth sports and continued to support his grandchildren in their football careers. Another hobby of his, included imparting his mechanical skills to his children. He helped develop their avid enthusiasm to classic cars and was a charter member of the Mustangs of Memphis Club.
The visitation will be held Saturday, February 4, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. until the funeral mass at 10:00 a.m. at the Catholic Church of the Holy Spirit. Entombment will take place in Memorial Park Cemetery.
Memorial donations in his honor can be made to Church of the Holy Spirit or a charity of the donor’s choice.
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