Gerald Henry McCorkle, 82, of Swansea, IL, born Monday, May 4, 1942, in Yakima, WA, passed away Tuesday, October 29, 2024 at Memorial Hospital in Belleville, IL.
Gerald was the owner and operator of McCorkle Mercantile in Myrtle Point, OR and a proud United States Air Force veteran with over 20 years of service. Jerry was a man of many talents and boundless dedication, known for his skill with his hands and his passion for DIY projects. He was a dedicated father and husband who made family time a top priority, sharing many cherished memories traveling together and exploring new places. He was an outdoorsman who found joy in hunting, connecting with nature, and passing on his love for the outdoors to those around him. His deep sense of patriotism and pride in his country was evident to all who knew him, as was his steadfast commitment to his family. His warmth, craftsmanship, and love will be greatly missed but never forgotten.
He was preceded in death by his:
- Parents, Elmer and Alice, nee Courtney, McCorkle
- Brother-in-law, Robert Thomas
Surviving are his:
- Loving wife, Cathleen McCorkle, nee Costa, of Belleville, IL
- Children:
- Jerry McCorkle Jr. of Portland, OR
- James McCorkle of Seaside, OR
- Justin (Shannon) McCorkle of Belfair, WA
- Jace (Natanong) McCorkle of Swansea, IL
- Brother, Gary McCorkle of Prescott Valley, AZ
- Sister, Norma Jean Thomas of Springfield, OR
- 13 grandchildren
- Three great-grandchildren
- Nephew, Austin Thomas
Funeral: Private family interment to be planned at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO.
