Gerald K. Caslavka

Gerald Kurth Caslavka, 88, of Grayslake, IL, former resident of Traer, passed away on Tuesday, March 29, 2022. He was born August 1, 1933, in Waterloo, IA, to Louis B. and Cecilia W. (Kurth) Caslavka. Jerry formed many lifelong friendships growing up in Traer and played football, basketball and baseball at Traer High School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. In 1956, he met the love of his life, Lois Rogers, of Warren, OH and they married in September 1957.

They started their life together in Iowa City, started their family in Muscatine, and eventually settled in Mundelein, IL.

Jerry received his degree from Carthage College and held various accounting positions throughout his career, retiring in 1998.

Jerry enjoyed golfing, hunting and fishing, especially trips to Canada with Lois, his children and grandchildren; cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes football and men’s and women’s basketball teams; and “road trips” with Lois, whether exploring new areas or visiting quilt shops so Lois could find new fabric. He loved to drive and never missed a chance to reunite with family and friends, near and far. He attended every annual Caslavka family reunion since 1977.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 64 years, Lois; his children: Kathleen, Sharon (James) Kelleher, Kevin (Rochelle), Brian and Kristine (Scott) Herbert; his grandchildren: Dakota Sutter, Seth, Dana, Marye and Zachary Caslavka, Kyle and Krystalynn Herbert, Brandy Bragg, Patrick, Liam and Meredith (Justin Ziolkowski) Kelleher; great grandchildren: Killian, Nora, James and Lily; great-great grandchild, Judith; his brother-in-law Sebastian LaSpina and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters Mary Lou LaSpina and Rita Ann.

Funeral services were held April 4, 2022.