Dr. Gerald P. Budzik, 74, of Huntley, died peacefully August 19, 2024.
Jerry was born November 4, 1949 in Chicago, the son of Stanley and Genevieve (Kapustka) Budzik. He graduated from IIT in 1971 with a degree in chemistry and went on to MIT where he earned a PhD in biochemistry in 1976. He was appointed to a faculty teaching position at Harvard Medical School and continued his research at Massachusetts General Hospital. In 1985 he returned to Chicago to be near his aging parents and began working as a biochemist for Abbott Laboratories until his retirement in 2003. During his tenure at Abbott, his research focused on cardiovascular, immunological, and neurological diseases. Following his retirement, he decided to do something “fun with absolutely no responsibility”, so he worked at Six Flags Great America for seven years—driving the train for several seasons and then doing hiring and training, which came dangerously close to having responsibility.
Jerry and his wife, Linda (Langebartels), were introduced by a mutual friend in 1988 and were married on February 10, 1990. He and Linda traveled extensively, visiting over 90 countries. Together they enjoyed cruises and fine dining.
Having no musical talent whatsoever, Jerry developed a love for classical music and the opera while living in Boston. He was a 40-year subscriber to Lyric Opera of Chicago and upon his retirement became a supernumerary (a stage “extra”) and appeared in six operas. Jerry was a foodie and enjoyed nothing more than dining at Michelin star restaurants. He will be missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by his wife, Linda Budzik, and by his sister-in-law, Laure Sander, along with several cousins, and many quasi nieces and nephews who called him Uncle Jerry.
A time of celebrating his life will be held on Sunday, October 6, 2024 from 11am until 2pm at DeFiore Funeral Home-10763 Dundee Road, Huntley. In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to Lyric Opera of Chicago.
For further information please contact the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or online condolences may be directed to www.defiorefuneral.com
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I am so sorry that Jerry has passed I know your memories hurt but let the tears flow. Soon those memories will bring a smile and that smile .will help you face a new day.
Jerry and I were the godparents of our dear friend's first born...James K. Jerry will truly be missed.
Dear Linda, Sending sincere condolences on the passing of Jerry. We didn't know him very well, since we've only lived here for three years, but having read the beautiful Obituary we learned he was such an active and brillant gentlemen. Thinking of you during this difficult time. "The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched -- they must be felt with the heart!" Sincerely, Tom & Teri Selzer
Dear Linda, we are so sorry for your loss. We loved spending time with Jerry, and enjoying his sense of humor and wonderful stories. In particular, I enjoyed talking with him about medicine and science — he was so intelligent and talented. We will always fondly remember spending Thanksgivings with you both and will miss Jerry dearly. All our love, Dan, Megan, Nathan, and Logan Dowd
Dear Linda, we are so sorry for your loss. We loved spending time with Jerry, and enjoying his sense of humor and wonderful stories. In particular, I enjoyed talking with him about medicine and science — he was so intelligent and talented. We will always fondly remember spending Thanksgivings with you both and will miss Jerry dearly. All our love, Dan, Megan, Nathan, and Logan Dowd