Jerry Lee Frederick

Jerry Lee Frederick, age 78, of Thomson, Illinois, passed away at his home on Friday, May 15, 2026, surrounded by the love and care of his wife, and MercyOne Genesis Hospice Care.

Jerry was born on February 7, 1948, in Sterling, Illinois, the son of Frank and Juanita (Cheeseman) Frederick. He grew up in the Savanna area and graduated from Savanna High School with the Class of 1966.

Following high school, Jerry proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He served from May 8, 1968, until his discharge on April 30, 1974, earning the rank of Sergeant. Jerry’s service included time in Vietnam from October of 1970 through April of 1971. His military service was an important part of his life, and he carried with him the discipline, strength, and quiet pride of a veteran.

On January 11, 1974, Jerry married Patricia Hansen in Winfield, Illinois. Together they built a life rooted in love, family, hard work, and friendship, celebrating 52 years.

Jerry worked 34 years on the railroad, serving as a conductor for the Milwaukee Railroad and later Metra. He retired in 2008. His railroad career took him through different places and experiences, but he eventually made his way back to the Savanna and Thomson area, where he enjoyed the people and places that felt like home.

Jerry enjoyed life’s simple pleasures. He liked fishing on the Mississippi River, mushroom hunting, brewing beer, baking bread, snowbirding in Florida, and spending time with close friends.

Jerry will be dearly missed by his wife, Patricia Frederick of Thomson; his sons, Marc Terry of La Crosse, Wisconsin, and Travis (Kelly) Frederick of Kingston, Illinois; two grandchildren, Grace and Drew; and his sister, Sheryl (David) Bahls of Guttenberg, Iowa.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.