(262) 653-0667
3016 75th Street, Kenosha, WI 53142
Gerald Dennis Riordan, age 82, of Kenosha passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family on December 26th. He was born October 6th, 1939 in St. Paul, Minnesota to the late Leo and Laura (Weibel) Riordan.
Jerry attended St. Mark grade school and was a 1958 graduate of St. Mary High School where he played football and was the Senior Class President.
Jerry served in the United States Coast Guard Reserves from 1958-1964. He was stationed at the Coast Guard Training Center Cape May, New Jersey. He attained the rank of Petty Officer E3 Firefighter Class 3 Port Security.
On October 5th, 1963 he married his high school sweetheart Marylou Capponi at St. Anthony Catholic Church, and they were blessed with 58 beautiful years together.
Jerry was a well-known Kenosha Restauranteur. His family founded and operated Kenosha’s Dutch Maid Ice Cream Parlors where he worked and learned his restaurant skills. Later, he along with his uncle owned and operated Chat N’ Chew Drive-In which was a Kenosha “fun food stop” for many years.
While his children were growing up Jerry was active in CYO Coaching, Little League and Treasurer of the CYO Band where he chaperoned many CYO Band trips. He was also a past Knights of Columbus member.
During his retirement Jerry spent many years fishing and relaxing at his trailer on the Chippewa Flowage in Northern Wisconsin. There he made new friends and spent many hours on his boat catching “the big one”! Jerry’s greatest joy was spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren fishing, playing cribbage and chatting about life.
Jerry is survived by his wife and children Rebecca (Christopher) Perillo, Stephanie (Tom) Williams, Paul (Jennifer) Riordan as well as his loving grandchildren Bryce, Mac, Braden, Eiley and Bella. Jerry was preceded in death by his brother John Riordan and sister Kathleen Carlson.
Per Jerry’s wishes no services will be held.
Casey Family Options Funerals and Cremations
Stephen P. Casey, Owner and Funeral Director
(262) 653-0667
www.CaseyFamilyOptions.com
Mon - Fri: 8AM - 4PM
(262) 653-0667
3016 75th Street, Kenosha, WI 53142
Carol sichmeller says:
You know when I think about the 89th street neighbors.
Jerry is one of my best memories. When he walked past the
House, he always had a smile and a remark. He was definitely
An asset to our neighborhood. He was always so kind and caring
To our family. He will be missed. I am sure the rooms will be quieter but his presence will always be with you. He loved his
Family unconditionally and was a model to his great kids.
Hugs to Mary Lou and all of you.
God bless. We
Tammylynne Jonas says:
Jerry was always generous in welcoming us into his home. He paid for many, many, many meals out when we were in college and had no money. And many more meals even when we were out of college.
Always good for a laugh and some tough love when we needed it. Will miss him very much! ❤️💕❤️
Kathy Ewing says:
Your Pa is imprinted in you, dear Rebecca. The angels aresinging him home. Blessings.
Jerry Fani says:
So sorry to hear this. Our love is with all of you!!!
Joan harbin says:
We walked 3+ miles to Jerry’s restaurant on 52nd street. Me in a wheelchair. He always had a table for us and came to the table to visit with us. We were so sad when he closed up. Over the past years we have thought of him frequently. We have missed him. We give the family our sympathy.
Debbie Bostetter (Zumpano) says:
Mary Lou so sorry for your loss. Lots of great memories of Chat and Chew! Love hugs and prayers to you and your family! ❤️🙏
Jean Slagoski says:
Mary Lou, Please accept my sympathy in the loss of Jerry. The both of you and I graduated from St. Mary’s high school together in ‘58. Lots of memories there. My husband will be gone 6 yrs. On the 17 of this month. Please know you are in my prayers and thoughts and keep all memories close to your heart. Love, Jean (Roemer) Slagoski
KIm Becker says:
So very sorry to hear this. Sending hugs and prayers. I have so many fond memories of working with jerry at Gentile. We had alot of fun!