Jerry Richard Wainwright

SPEEDWELL, TN (formerly of Racine) – Mr. Jerry Wainwright, 74, passed away at Hospice Alliance – Racine Hospice House on Monday, April 13, 2015.

   He was born in Walworth, WI on April 21, 1940, the son of Richard and Genevieve (nee: Peters) Wainwright.  Jerry graduated from Washington Park High School.  Upon graduation he served his nation with the US Army. On July 31, 1965 he married the love of his life, Joyce Valukas.   After retirement they moved to Speedwell, Tennessee.  Joyce preceded him in death on September 2, 2011. 

  Jerry was a proud American and strongly supported the American worker and union members. Jerry was a member of the Sheet Metal Workers Union for most of his career spending the last 10 years of his career as a UAW member at Chrysler.   

   He enjoyed his free time riding his Harley Davidson, working on cars, antiquing and being in the company of his family; including his dog, Annie.

  Jerry is survived by his mother, Genevieve Wainwright of Racine; his children, Nikki Janish, Don Fresen both of Burlington, Richard (Lisa) Wainwright of Wausaukee; his six grandchildren, Matthew, Zach, Jalisa, Leah, Destiny and Dennis; his great granddaughter, Taytum; his brother, Jim (Holly) Wainwright of Illinois; his brother-in-law, Bob Schommer; his nieces and nephews; and dear extended family, Tom and Wanda Hansen, Gerry Chumbley, Gordy and Sheri Simanek, Pat LaPlante and Pam Theres. Jerry was preceded in death by his father, Richard, his wife Joyce and his sister, Judy Schommer.

   A private service with military honors, officiated by John Fleming was held in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Friday, April 17, 2015.  His interment took place in the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery.  For those wishing to send memorials in Jerry’s name the family has suggested Hospice Alliance – Racine Hospice House.  

    Thank you to Hospice Alliance and Dr. Michael Mullane and their entire staffs for the exceptional attention Jerry received while under their care.