Katherine G. McCleary "Gerry"

age 84, of Crown Point, passed away Tuesday, February 14, 2017. Gerry is survived by her step-son Curt Patz, her brother Charles Rudershausen, her sister Anita McLaughlin, many nieces, nephews, and numerous dear friends. Everyone was like family to her, and she loved them dearly. Special thanks to Zaya, her beloved caregiver for many years who was like a daughter to her. Gerry was preceded in death by her son Phil Patz and husband Robert McCleary.

Gerry lived many happy years in Chile as a young child. Amelia, Virginia was her beloved home as a teen and young adult before the family moved to the Midwest. She was born to be a teacher. Early in her career, she worked in a music store as a private music teacher encouraging young musicians.  However, the majority of her career was in the Illinois Public School System as a fourth grade teacher. Even in her later years she helped to guide young artists as a Young Rembrandts after-school art teacher.

A skilled violinist, Gerry was a member of many orchestras over the years. Most recently she performed with her beloved LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra whose members also became her extended family. In earlier years she had been a musician in the Valparaiso University Civic Orchestra and the Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra.

From an early age, beginning with her parents, she loved to travel around the world to many interesting places, but mostly she loved the wonderful people whom she would visit and meet all around the world. Every excursion was documented by hundreds of photos or slides taken and cherished by Gerry.

Gerry's passion for the arts was well-rounded. She enjoyed opera and attended many performances at several major opera houses. She was also a lover of orchestral music, the fine arts, and dramatic plays. Having friends from all around the world, Gerry would spend countless hours writing long, flowery letters to keep her "family" up to date.  Gerry's Catholic faith was very important to her. She had been a faithful member of St. Michael Church in Schererville for many years and then St. Mary's in Crown Point when she moved to Wittenberg Village. Now she is truly "home" with her God and family.

Time and place for Gerry McCleary's Memorial Service has been set.

Date: May 2, 2017

Place: St. Mary Church, 321 E. Joliet St. Crown Point, Indiana

Time: Music starts at 10:45 a.m. Mass starts at 11:00 a.m.

Luncheon at St. Mary's School Hall will immediately follow the service.

Sharing of stories and memories will take place after eating.  Everyone will have a chance to talk about their special connection with this grand lady! Also, anyone who wants to play a musical tribute will be welcome to share that with the group. Plan to stay and honor her with your presence. You all know how she loved a good party!!