Gerard Joseph “Jerry” McHale

November 17, 2022

Gerard Joseph “Jerry” McHale, Carbondale, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, November 17, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Archbald, son of the late John and Sadie Barrett McHale, he was a graduate of Archbald High School, Class of 1962.

Jerry is survived by his devoted wife and best friend, Janet (Dick) McHale.  The couple was married for 51 years.

Jerry enjoyed cooking for his family every day. He was proud of his Irish Heritage and was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan.  But above all, he loved his family deeply.

He was the most beautiful and selfless man on Earth.  It is difficult to find the words that do him the justice and honor he deserves.  He was a true gentleman, full of kindness, compassion, true grit, strength, discipline, yet loving.  Always a protector, he allowed himself to make mistakes, accept the consequences and move forward in a positive manner.  A word so powerful that it can take the ambiguity of the term unconditional and make it a clear reality.  No one did it better than Dad “Poppy.”

Poppy has touched the hearts and lives of all who were blessed to have known him.  His love and guidance were instrumental in the hundreds of children whose lives he touched in our community.  He has truly left his mark on this Earth and his legacy will live on through all of us.

Surviving are two sons, Gerard “Jerry” Jr., Cocoa Beach, Florida; Robert, Lake Ariel; four daughters, Mary T (Teri), Carbondale; Michele (Shelly), Carbondale; Lisa, Dunmore; and Karen, Wilkes Barre; 11 grandchildren, Chaney, Ciara, Scott, Miranda, R.J., Mariah, Matthew, Gerard III, Anthony, Jack, and Alexa; 8 great grandchildren; 2 brothers, Pat and Robert McHale; several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Jack McHale.

The family would like to thank the many doctors and nurses that cared for Jerry.

The funeral will be Saturday, November 19, with Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. in St. Rose of Lima Church, Carbondale.  Viewing will be held from 9:00 a.m. until mass time at the church. Entombment, Our Mother of Sorrows Cemetery, Finch Hill.

Arrangements, Lawrence A. Gabriel Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., Carbondale.  To offer an online condolence, visit the funeral home’s website.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association.