Jerry Heslinga, age 89, a resident of Windsor Park Manor in Carol Stream an a former resident of Wheaton, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, February 9. He was born on November 14, 1918, in Chicago to Richard and Nancy Heslinga, who immigrated to America from Holland. Jerry attended Ebenezer Christian School. He became a Christian at the age of 15, being led to the Lord by a friend from Moody Church. He met his beloved wife, Mary, while participating in the Midnight Brigade, a street preaching ministry in downtown Chicago. They married on June 8, 1940, moved to Wheaton in 1953 and joined First Baptist Church, where Jerry served as Sunday School superintendent, deacon, and usher. He also led the singing in the Sunday evening service for many years. Many will recall Jerry opening their car door and greeting them on Sunday morning, welcoming them to church.
Jerry worked in the trucking industry as terminal manager for Motor Express in Chicago, retiring in 1985. Following retirement, he served as a volunteer officer with the Du Page County Sheriff's office. He also delivered Meals on Wheels and volunteered at ECFA (Evangelical Child and Family Agency).
Jerry was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 67 years, Mary, whom he deeply missed, and three brother and two sisters. Survivors include two daughters -- Nancy (Ken) Greener and Alice (Richard) Tennies, two sons -- Jerry (Virginia) and Dave (Cindy), 11 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, brother, Ben and sisters, Joan Vanderkamp and Christine Feddema. Jerry will be greatly missed by all of them, but all will look forward to that Great Reunion someday.
A visitation will be held on Friday, February 15, from 3:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, 1310 N. Main St. in Wheaton, where a funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 16 at 10:00 a.m. Interment will be held privately.