Geoffrey A. Jern, 54, of Galesburg, Illinois, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, May 3, 2022, in Atlanta, while visiting his daughters.
He was born May 20, 1967, in Galesburg, the son of Milton and Phyllis Jern.
He is survived by his mother, Phyllis Jern of Galesburg; three children, Nathan (Jessica) Nichols of Peoria, Illinois and twin daughters, Kathrine Jern and Elizabeth Jern, both of Atlanta; siblings, Mike (Johan Ewalt) Bond of Galesburg, G.S. (Lisa) Bond of Galesburg, Doug (Tanya) Bond of Atlanta, and Arthur (Lisa) Jern of Galesburg; several nieces and nephews; and a special aunt, Mary Bailey Haywood of Galesburg. He was preceded in death by his father, Milton Jern, and siblings, B.J. Bond, Patricia Ferguson, and Bernard Jern.
While growing up in Galesburg, Geoff was a member of the Civil Air Patrol, attaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. After leaving Galesburg, he spent some time in California and Atlanta for many years before returning to Galesburg in 2019. Geoff was currently the second shift team lead for Hirschbach Washout in Monmouth.
Geoff was an avid World War II and military historian. He had a great love of cars, especially exotic cars. He was a fan of John Wayne westerns and was a loyal and loving dog owner.
Cremation will be accorded. A celebration of life service will be 11 a.m. Friday, May 20, 2022, at the First United Methodist Church, with Rev. Vince Rohn officiating. No formal visitation will be held, but a time for fellowship and refreshment will follow the service in the church’s fellowship hall. Private scattering of ashes will be in the East Linwood Cemetery Scattering Garden. Memorials contributions in Geoff’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital for Children’s Cancer or the Knox County Humane Society. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services of Galesburg is honored to serve the family. Online condolences may be made on the funeral home’s website at www.h-p-w.com.
