Gerald Lynn "Jerry" Spiker, age 72 of Stronghurst, IL passed away at 11:08 a.m. Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL. He was born November 16, 1951 in LaHarpe, IL, the son of Victor and Elsie Kemp Spiker.  On March 13, 1982, he married Debra McIntyre in Oquawka, IL.

Jerry was a graduate of Stronghurst High School, where he began working as a janitor for the school at the age of sixteen.  He continued working there for the next 46 years.  Following his  retirement, he owned and operated Handyman Plus, a home improvement and appliance repair business in Stronghurst.

In his spare time, Jerry was an avid hunter, and enjoyed teaching local hunter safety courses.  He was a member of the Stronghurst Lions Club, and also was a fan of black cats, and ONLY black cats!  He took great pride in everything he did, and loved serving his community.

Survivors include his wife, four children: Jeremy Spiker of Denver, CO, Dustin Spiker of Oquawka, IL, LoRena (Ryan) Allen of Houghton, IA, and April (Timothy) Phillips of Mediapolis, IA, seven grandchildren: Katherine Phillips, Colby Phillips, Alex Cooper, Shalynn Allen, Treyvin Allen, Camden Phillips and Samuel Spiker.  He was preceded in death by his mother and father, his step-father: Robert Carhoff, one sister: Janet Sherman, and his twin brother: James Spiker.

The funeral service for Jerry will be at 2:00 p.m. Monday, August 19, 2024 at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in Stronghurst with Quentin Peterson officiating.  Burial will follow in the Stronghurst Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from Noon until time of services Monday.  In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial donations to the Henderson County Humane Society and Stronghurst American Legion.  Please visit Jerry's obituary at banksandbeals.com to leave a condolence.