Gerald A. Cox Sr., 72
Gerald “Jerry” Arthur Cox Sr. of Culver IN, formerly from Tinley Park IL, passed away August 8, 2014 in the home he loved so much in the loving arms of his caring wife, Monica Cox. We will be celebrating the life of this great man that started this loving family on September 4, 1965 when he wed Monica McCawley. His wake will be held in his home, where he found his bit of Heaven on Earth. It is a British custom to hold the viewing of a loved one that has passed, in their home where they were most at peace. The viewing will take place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, August 13, 2014 with a memorial celebration of life to follow at 5:30 p.m. Gerald’s fourth eldest child, Michelle Smith will be officiating the service in honor of her father. Gerald A. Cox is survived by his wife, Monica M. Cox and six adult children, Monica Martz (husband John), Gerald A. Cox, Jr. (wife Susan), Connie Wilson (husband Bill), Michelle Smith (husband Joe), Kimberly Burdick and David Cox along with 18 grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Interment will be private. Memorial donations can be made to Shriner’s Hospital for Children.
Our father was born on June 29, 1942 to Violet Knopp and Robert K. Cox, Sr. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Robert K. Cox, Jr. He provided for his wife and six kids working in the lithography trade. He was part of the printing process for such companies as Hallmark and the Chicago Bears. Gerald Sr. started his own businesses which included Congress Press, C & C Litho, Lincoln Way Printing and lastly Meteor Color Graphics. His printing legacy lives on with his eldest son, Jerry Jr. Life hasn’t been easy providing for all those kids including a special needs baby but our dad was great at overcoming obstacles and learning life lessons from them. Sometimes the best way to learn is by being knocked down and figuring out how to get back up. As our dad would say, he went to the school of hard knocks.
The favorite time of year for our dad was Christmas time. We’d decorate our whole house, even putting red ribbons around the pillars of the porch so that drivers could see giant candy canes from the road. We’d have different holiday scenes in each picture window. Since our dad passed away before we could celebrate Christmas we wanted to honor his love for the holiday by displaying his life size Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Dad was like the seed that started our family tree. Through the years with loving care and attention this family tree has flourished under the tender care of both our parents. This family tree has grown from that tiny sapling that was started by our parents Monica M. McCawley and Gerald A. Cox, Sr. on the day of their wedding to include 6 children, 18 grandchildren and now 3 great grandchildren. The Cox family tree is strong and can withstand any storm that tries to topple it.