Dr. Gerard “Gerry” Girdaukas
December 2, 1953 -
December 21, 2015
Dr. Gerard “Gerry” Girdaukas was born on December 2, 1953, in Sheboygan, WI and, following a catastrophic medical event, he was called home to the loving arms of his God on December 21, 2015.
He was the youngest child of Edward and Helen (Cinelis) Girdaukas. Gerry attended St. Lawrence Seminary High School in Fond du Lac, from 1968-1972. He attended Marquette University in Milwaukee, graduating in 1976 with a degree in Psychology. After graduation, Gerry joined the Capuchin order and was with them from 1976 – 1981. He began his professional career as a youth minister at St. Mary’s Parish in Des Plaines, IL. He obtained both his Master’s and Ph. D. in Clinical Psychology at Loyola University of Chicago. Gerry began his private practice, Allied Counseling Services, in Lake Bluff, IL, in 1992. His greatest joy in life, after his family, was being “Dr. Gerry.” This was his passion and life’s work, and he was grateful every day for the trust placed in him by all those whose lives he touched.
Some of Gerry ‘s other joys in life included spending special times with his boys and his wife Kris, all things vintage cars which was a passion he shared with his sons, cousins and uncle, traveling, dogs, sketching, and his beloved Green Bay Packers. He took great pride in his Lithuanian heritage. He had a tremendous sense of humor, a brilliant way with words, a peaceful presence and a joyful heart. He was a devout Catholic and had a deep, abiding love for and knowledge of the complexity of his faith. He lived his faith every day and in everything he did. He truly reflected the love, light, joy and hope of the Lord to all who knew him. He was actively involved in many groups at his parish, St. Anne Catholic Church in Pleasant Prairie, including being a leader in Confirmation instruction, That Man Is You Men’s Group (his beloved “Band of Brothers”) and a leader of a Great Adventure Bible Timeline study group. His loss is deeply felt by his church community.
Gerry is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Kristin (Hendee) Girdaukas; his beloved sons, Patrick and Joshua; siblings Timothy, James, Gregory, Celeste and Maureen; his loving mother-in-law, Dorothy; sister-in-law, Kimberly, and brother-in-law, Mark. He is further survived by his aunt, many wonderful cousins, nieces, nephews, devoted friends and clients.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his oldest son, David.
Service Info
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, December 29, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Anne Catholic Church, 9091 Prairie Ridge Blvd., Pleasant Prairie. Relatives and friends are asked to meet at church beginning at 9:00 a.m. Interment will follow in Ascension Cemetery, Libertyville, IL.
Posted by:
Ryan CarrDr Gerry was an amazing man. His insights changed the direction of my life after a very difficult life event. He taught me how to separate anger from my actions and to take responsibility for my actions. I was just telling my wife of 26 years about how great he was and found he had passed 10 years ago. He was a blessing and the world is less without him in it.
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Lori & Wyatt WagenknechtKris, There really are no words to express our sadness, sorrow and this profound sense of loss. Dr. Gerry helped both Wyatt and I through some very trying times. He always checked in to make sure Wyatt was thriving at Marquette. We feel very blessed to have known Gerry and to have been able to share our life with him. Lori
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Robert KeppelDear Kris and family, I am sorry to hear of your loss. Gerard was my second cousin. His mother and mine were first cousins. He sounds like he was a wonderful man, and I wish I had known him. Bob Keppel
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Shannon & Dean LockasKris - We are so sorry we couldn't attend services for Dr. G. He was an amazing, gifted force in our lives. We will miss his humor and wisdom and his spirit that guided us through challenging times. Drew, of course, will miss him dearly. God must have needed an angel in heaven more than here on earth. May God bless and comfort you and the boys.
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Andrea OldenburgDr. Gerry helped me make it through my anxiety as a child. I don't know that I can say I would be alive today without his help. I'm deeply sadden to hear of his passing and I send my deepest condolences. Dr. Gerry was a wonderful, kind man. Rest peacefully!
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Gary, Linda & Michael BleichWe were very saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. Gerry. He was there for our son when he was going through some difficult times. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
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Adriana SormaniDear Kris, I am so sad to hear of Gerry's passing. You and Gerry help my boys (Anthony and Chris Godinez) and I through some very difficult times. I know you will find comfort in all your wonderful memories, faith , friends and family. My Prayers and thoughts are with you during this very difficult time. Adriana
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Illinois State Women's Basketball Team and StaffJosh, Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your entire family at this difficult time. Though we did not know Gerry yet, your love, dedication, work ethic and teamwork have made a huge impact in the women's basketball office at Illinois State University. All those attributes are things I'm sure he instilled. He would be proud! Thinking of you and knowing that God's Grace is with all of you. Illinois State Women's Basketball
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KaraDr. Gerry was and is an angel. I was blessed to know him for a little while, to receive his guidance. He was definitely a rare gem; a wonderful counselor. Prayers for healing and peace to you and your family. With sadness and Faith, Kara Nawrocki
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Bob & Judy Schmidt & familyDear Kris and boys, Judy and I would like to send you our deepest condolences. We will never forget the little time we spent together when you came down to Florida. With God's help we know you will be strong through this trying time. Love from us all down here in Florida. Bob and Judy
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David GomezDear Kris, I am so very sorry. I can only imagine your pain and sadness, but please take comfort in knowing that Gerry was truly a great man who helped so many to achieve peace in their lives. While I only knew Gerry in the capacity of a doctor patient relationship, I quickly developed the highest level of respect and appreciation for him. The positive impact he had on my life is immeasurable. Having met Gerry was a precious gift, which I will cherish forever. My thoughts are with you and your family at this time. With my deepest sympathy and affection.
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Gail & Bill WallaceDear Kris, Josh, and Patrick, We are so deeply sorry for you and numb with grief since receiving Cindy's call about Gerry's passing. How we wish we were back in town next week to be with you and our family, supporting each other at this very sad time. Gerry's quiet strength and joy of life affected us all; the loss of him will be immeasurable. Know that you are loved and constantly prayed for. God be with you, giving you His comfort. Love, Bill and Gail Wallace
