Gerald “Jerry” Dziduch, 67, passed away on Friday, December 29, 2023, surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with cancer.
He was born in Dunkirk on October 15, 1956 to the late Andy and Diane Dziduch.
A beloved son and brother, Jerry grew up alongside six siblings where he learned the importance of family, faith and hard work.
A 1975 graduate of Dunkirk High School, Jerry earned a basketball scholarship to Geneseo College. However, he soon returned home to work for the family business, Andrew Dziduch Construction Company, where he continued to learn the building trades. This business later became what is now known as the Add Lumber Company, of which he and his siblings were co-owners. He learned about retail and it became his lifelong career and passion.
On August 8, 1981, Jerry married the love of his life, Cheryl (Carroll) Dziduch. Cheryl lightly chose this date of 8/8/81 so that Jerry would never forget their anniversary! Together they raised their three children Shannon, Cory and Kellie. Jerry always attended his children's sporting and social events and especially adored his grandchildren. He also enjoyed listening to classic rock, vacationing in Siesta Key, riding his Harley, golfing, fishing, and watching the Sabers and Bills.
Twelve years ago, he was able to realize his lifelong dream: building his home on Lake Erie to enjoy with his family. From there he had the best view of every sunset.
Working with his hands and never afraid to get dirty, Jerry was an incredibly hard worker, living by the motto: “Do it right the first time.” He became a wealth of knowledge, a competent and fair businessman, with strong faith and morals which he instilled in his children. With no plans to retire, Jerry was a workaholic with a “do it” attitude, even ordering trucks of wood until his last days. He leaves behind a successful family business that he knew inside and out and truly loved.
Even though he left us far too soon, we are very happy to know that his life was wonderfully full. He was an incredible man who left behind a remarkable legacy.
Surviving are his wife of 42 years, Cheryl C Dziduch, and their three children: Shannon (Chris) Dante, Cory (Aleah) Dziduch and Kellie (Cory Clabbatz) Dziduch. His six grandchildren: Nadia and Nicholas Dante, Isabella Buckley, Ellie, Ayden and Leilani Dziduch. His six brothers and sisters: Linda (Len) Rao, Fred (Zoraida) Dziduch, Laura (Rick) Bellando, Kenny (Karen Gentner) Dziduch, Lisa (Rick) Crandall, Louise (Chris) Lanski, as well as several nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to call on Friday, January 5, 2024, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the McGraw Kowal Funeral Home, 736 Central Avenue Dunkerque. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 6, 2024 at 11 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton RC Church.
Arrangements are by Richard Mackowiak.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Northern Chautauqua Catholic School, 328 Washington Ave, Dunkirk, NY 14048. Donations can be mailed or made online at https://www.nccschool.us/support -ncs.