Gerald "Jerry" R. Biernat

Gerald “Jerry” R. Biernat, age 73 of Plainfield, IL, passed away at Saint Joseph Medical Center in Joliet, IL on October 9, 2026. Jerry was born to his father Raymond T. Biernat and mother Mary B. Biernat (née Kezele) on March 1, 1953 in Joliet, IL.

Jerry was a graduate of Plainfield High School as a member of the Class of 1971. He continued his education at Western Illinois University before becoming a carpenter. He practiced his craft alongside his father, brother, and cousin at Biernat Construction Company and transitioned to co-owner after his father's death, serving in that role from 1972 until 2007. After retirement, Jerry quickly recognized that idle hands didn’t feel quite right to him, so he worked as a Maintenance Technician with Empress/Hollywood Casinos.

From an early age, Jerry began what would become a lifelong love of music. In high school, he showcased his musical talent by playing the organ for his band “United Sound”. He cherished his semi-annual fishing trips to Wisconsin with his close fishing buddies. He looked forward to those trips all year, spending mornings on the water, sharing a few laughs, and bringing home an abundance of fish. In the kitchen, Jerry was the self-appointed executive chef who loved directing his favorite sous-chefs (i.e. anyone who happened to be in the room). He was famous for his homemade noodle soup and potica, and he anchored the family's annual Pierogi Night, a cherished tradition filled with flour, laughter, and love.

A true handyman and mechanic extraordinaire, Jerry had an incredible ability to fix just about anything, often using whatever was lying around. He always knew, beyond a shadow of a doubt, the absolute best way to do it. Jerry loved nothing more than meeting up with good friends and family at the local bars to swap stories, share a few laughs, and try his luck playing Queen of Hearts. He had a natural, unintended knack for mispronouncing words (a sweet habit that brought endless laughter to those he loved). Of course, Jerry’s favorite role and the one he was most proud of in life was being “Dad” and “Grandpa” to his “Honeybunnies”. He was their biggest fan, faithfully attending countless dance recitals, school ceremonies, and milestone events over the years to cheer them on.

He was preceded in death by his parents Ray and Mary Biernat.

Jerry is survived by his devoted wife Dianna S. Biernat (née Watson); his loving daughters Sarah (Kyle) Mette, Lisa (Shawn Smith) Biernat, and Felicia Biernat; his dear granddaughters Audrey and Natalie Biernat-Crane and Emme and Lily Mette; as well as his siblings Pat (the late Ed) Ludden, Mike Biernat, and Deb (Bert) Ludden.

In line with Jerry’s stated wishes, cremation rites will be accorded and his family will host a Celebration of Life Memorial Gathering on Friday, October 23, 2026 from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm with a Chapel Service to begin at 6:30 pm at Tezak’s Home to Celebrate Life, 1211 Plainfield Rd, IL 60544.