Jerry L. Hardwick 1939-2026

Born Nov. 16, 1939, Jerry was a proud Tiger and part of Newton Falls High School’s graduating Class of 1957. In short order, he became a graduate, a husband, a member of the United States Armed Forces and a father. Thus began a life focused on his three great loves: his wife, Virginia, to whom he was married for 67 years; his three kids; and his faith.

He was a focused, driven man, especially as a provider, spending his life doing whatever he had to do to take care of his family. He lived like he worked, honest and straightforward. He was a man of few words, so when he spoke, it was a good time to listen. And while he didn’t say much, you always knew exactly where he stood on things.

A lifelong love of football had him watching the NFL every Sunday. He was a long-suffering Cleveland Browns fan who always hoped that next year they’d be back. (Dad, we’re still waiting for that to happen!) When his brother Jim moved to Michigan, they began a lifelong Ohio State/Michigan rivalry that included many bets and even trips to the game.

Jerry knew precisely the power of his word. It was a man’s bond. If he said he’d do it, it would get done. His promise was a signed contract. To know him was to respect him for how purely and consistently he moved through this world. His employers recognized and relied on this during his tenure at Van Huffel, Packard, Copperweld and AVI.

He was the consummate family man, attending every event his children had and was always there to say “good job” and how proud he was of us. And while he could be seen as a serious man, he had one heck of a sense of humor. As a family, we could sit around and make each other laugh until we were all red-faced and crying. Seeing him like that was always pure joy.

His deep faith guided him throughout his life. If he were able to talk to us from the great beyond, he would undoubtedly tell us not to be sad about his passing but to rejoice in the promise of eternal life with his heavenly father.

He is survived by his loving wife, Virginia; children, Steve and DeAnna; four grandchildren; his brother, Jim (Patricia) Harvey; and his sisters, Kathleen Shonce and Janice (Bill) Crawford; along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his oldest son, Jerry Hardwick II; his sister, Judy Vietto; and his mother and stepfather, Cora and James Harvey.

Family and friends may call from 1 to 2 p.m. Friday, July 10, 2026, at the Peter Rossi and Son Memorial Chapel, 1884 North Road NE, Warren, OH 44483, where the calling hours will be followed by a funeral service at 2 p.m.

Visit www.peterrossiandsonfh.com to send condolences to the family.

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