Gerald “Jerry” P. Kaminski, Sr., passed away at the age of 81, surrounded by the love of his family. A devoted husband, father, and community leader, Jerry dedicated his life to both his loved ones and the service of others. His commitment to service began early in life when Jerry served in the National Guard. In 1971, he founded Kaminski & Sons Truck Equipment (Refrigeration), where he served as President, building a proud legacy of a family-owned and operated full-service truck equipment facility. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, he took great pride in providing top-quality service and custom installations for all major types of truck equipment, ensuring the business thrived for generations to come.
Jerry faithfully served the residents of Cheektowaga as Deputy Supervisor and a dedicated council member. For nearly 14 years, he worked tirelessly on behalf of the community, advocating for its residents through the many committees he served on and chaired. A passionate and driven leader, Jerry was committed to making a lasting impact, championing initiatives that improved the town and enriched the lives of those who called it home.
Jerry found great joy in hunting, boating, and spending time with his sons, their wives, and his beloved grandchildren. He shared a unique and special bond with each of his children and grandchildren, filling his home with warmth, laughter, and love. His bond with his sons was especially strong, forged through years of working together in the family business, hunting, boating, and traveling side by side, whether for work or adventure. His workshop basement and garage were places of creativity and connection, where he and his grandsons built and re-built countless projects, while his granddaughters kept him engaged in lively, spirited conversations. No matter the moment, Jerry’s greatest happiness came from being surrounded by his family, creating memories that will be cherished forever.
Jerry was blessed to share over 50 wonderful years of marriage with the love of his life, his beloved wife, Kathleen (nee McDonald) Kaminski. Their love was extraordinary—genuine, unwavering, and deeply felt by everyone who knew them. Together, they built a life that many could only dream of, filled with love, laughter, and shared adventures. From building a successful business to traveling the world side by side, Jerry and Kathy embraced every moment together, creating a lifetime of cherished memories.
A devoted father of Gerald P. “Jerry” (Lynette) Kaminski, Jr. and James “Jamie” (Jessica) Kaminski and loving grandfather of Kyle Kaminski, Cole Kaminski, Colin Kaminski, Zoe (Christopher Klimek) Kaminski, Alexzander Kaminski, Elizabeth Kaminski, and Mason Kaminski.
The brother of Judith (Donald) Chudzik and the late Marcia (late Edwin) Wienckowski and brother-in-law of late Linda (late Richard) Blackmar, late Jesse “Corky” (late Edna) McDonald, Myra (Herbert) Schultz, and Eileen Newton. Jerry is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
The family will be present on Saturday, February 1st from 2-6 PM and on Sunday, February 2nd from 2-6 PM at the PIETSZAK FUNERAL HOME, 2400 William Street (near Harlem) where a service will take place Sunday at 5:30 PM.
Burial will take place at a later date at Lakeside Cemetery, in Hamburg, New York.
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