Gerald G. “Jerry” Vaninger, 93 of Trenton, Illinois, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday, January 18, 2026.
He was born on November 2, 1932, in Trenton, the son of the late George and Kathryn (nee Schoene) Vaninger.
On August 10, 1963, he married Elvera “Vera” Welling at St. Mary’s Church in Trenton, and together they shared 38 years of marriage. She preceded him in death on February 15, 2002.
In addition to his parents and wife, Jerry was preceded in death by his sister, Velva McGavock; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Henry and Christine (nee Markus) Welling; and brothers- and sisters-in-law, Louis and Grace Welling, Sr. Leandra Welling PHJC, Donald and Eloise Seger, and Ann Bolk.
Surviving are his children, Gerrie Ann (Jay) Goble of Trenton, Lynn (Robb) Spicer of Columbia, Jim (Debbie) Vaninger of Ottawa, and Kara (Don) Williams of Trenton; grandchildren, Tyler (Katie) Goble, Alex Goble, Ryan (Jordan) Spicer, Elizabeth Vaninger, Lauren Vaninger, Drew (Amanda) Williams, Kate (Louis) Niemerg; great-grandchildren, Emilia and Allie Goble, Cole, Carly, and Clay Spicer, Nolan Niemerg. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, James Bolk of Carlyle.
A retired carpenter, Jerry devoted many years to his trade before he and Vera opened a florist shop in Trenton. Jerry was a humble and hard-working man. He enjoyed playing cards, hunting, gardening, and spending time with his grandchildren. His six great-grandchildren especially brought him joy, always lighting up his face with a smile.
In keeping with his wishes, Jerry will be cremated, and a private service will be held at a later date.
Memorials may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois or Western Clinton County Senior Service and will be received by mail at Moss Funeral Home, 105 S. Main St. Trenton, IL 62293, who is serving the family.
