Gerard J. “Gerry” Pajdzik, 69, of Hobart, Indiana, born January 28th 1957, departed our world unexpectedly, April 29th 2026.In navigating the tragedy of his sudden absence, we celebrate Gerry as a pillar of strength to all who knew him. A follower of Christ, his profound character, authenticity, and desire to help others remind us in our moment of loss, just how fortunate we were to have received his love.

Graduating from Roosevelt High School, East Chicago, IN, Class of ‘75, he went on to study Automotive Technology at Gary Career Center and Ivy Tech. At one time an owner of J&J Auto Body, Highland, IN, Gerry retired in 2019 with 30 years service from United Parcel Service (UPS) as a mechanic and bodyman on “Jeff Street” downtown Chicago. He was a member of IAM Local 701.

Entering Holy Matrimony on July 7, 1984, Gerry began his journey with Cindy, his life’s truest love. Together they shared 41 years of unconditional devotion to one another and their children. He was an active member of Nativity of Our Savior Catholic Church, Portage, IN. 

Considered a Renaissance man by all who knew him, he could both speak with concise knowledge and also demonstrate life skills on countless topics, often backing up his experiences with vivid storytelling. He felt most alive outdoors, known by all as an avid fisherman, waterfowl hunter, and for taking the family on tent camping trips around Indiana where he threw Jarts by lantern light with best friend, Dave Anderson. Gerry was a natural athlete remembered as a challenging opponent with a competitive spirit and was a member of several intramural baseball, bowling, softball and basketball leagues throughout his life. He was a proud fan of the Baltimore Orioles, Indiana Hoosiers basketball, and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Chicago Bears, and Hobart Brickie football teams. He made it a priority to coach his children in youth sports and it brought him immense joy to take his grandchildren to and from sports practices and was their biggest supporter in the bleachers at games. He was especially proud to be a property owner at Yogi Bear Jellystone Park, Pierceton, IN, where he brought his family together to share lasting memories, spending summers there since 1975.

He possessed an ironclad work ethic and never stopped moving, seeing retirement not as a period of slowing down but as an opportunity giving him time for other projects around the house. He had a “green thumb” and took great pride in his lawn care, flowers, and vegetable garden. He was hard at work throughout his last days.

Surviving are his adoring wife Cindy, devoted children Matthew Pajdzik and Ashley Soderquist, and son-in-law Daniel Soderquist with whom he held a special bond. Proud Papa to Jacob, Charlotte, Evelyn, and Vivian Soderquist.Also surviving are brothers Thomas (Jackie), Michael, and Peter (Christy), and sister Pamela; Brothers-in-law Julian (Mitzi) and Mark (Robin) Gonzales, and numerous nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind the NYE Gang, his gym buddies, and many lifelong friends. 

Gerry was preceded in death by parents Walter and Josephine Pajdzik, loving sister Mary Jo, mother and father in-law Julian and Angie Gonzales, grandson Noah Atlas Soderquist and his two cats Pixie and Mabel, whom he adored.

In accordance with his wishes, services will not be held.

A celebration of life will be held in 2027 for friends and family to commemorate his legacy.