McHenry World War II vet loved his family, business

Gerald Hamil ~ 1917-2007

Gerald E. Hamil's story is similar to those of many American men who were part of what journalist and author Tom Brokaw called "The Greatest Generation."

A Midwestern farm boy, Hamil joined the Army during World War II and was sent overseas to fight the Japanese in the Pacific.

After coming home a decorated soldier, Hamil didn't speak much of the war to his family, son Don Hamil said. Instead, he got on with his civilian life, working as a mechanic before running his own automobile service business in Libertyville for more than 30 years.

He was proud of that shop, which still bears his name even though he retired 26 years ago. Treating customers fairly was important to him, his son said.

"Everybody -- whether it was family or friends or regular customers -- was treated equally," said Don Hamil, who now operates Jerry's Automotive on Milwaukee Avenue.

Hamil, 89, died Aug. 16 at the Vernon Hills assisted living center where he'd been living. He had suffered from cancer, kidney failure and other ailments in recent years, his family said.

A funeral service is set for 11 a.m. Thursday at the Burnett-Dane Funeral Home, 120 W. Park Ave., Libertyville. Interment with military honors will follow in Highland Memorial Park in Gurnee.

Born in Mauston, Wis., Hamil was raised on farms there and in McHenry. Everyone called him Jerry, his son said.

A lifelong music lover, he taught himself to play the bass fiddle and steel guitar, Don Hamil said. He played in bands and traveled as a musician, his son said.

Hamil sang, too, performing with the Swedish Glee Club in Waukegan.

After World War II, Mr. Hamil worked at Bernard Chevrolet in Libertyville. He ran his own service station from 1948 until 1980.

Hamil settled in Grayslake in the 1960s, where he and his late wife, Delores, raised their family and lived for 40 years.

Family was very important to Hamil, his son said. He loved watching each new generation flourish.

The grandkids were a particular joy, Don Hamil said.

"That was his biggest joy, seeing those kids romp around and jump on his lap," he recalled.

Hamil spent the last four years at the Hawthorn Lakes assisted living complex.

Hamil's survivors include: seven children; 27 grandchildren; 15-great-grandchildren; and several great-great-grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to VFW Post No. 8741 or American Legion Post No. 329.