Jerald L. "Jerry" Gahimer

Jerald L. “Jerry” Gahimer, 70, of Shelbyville, passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at his home.

He was born on November 26, 1955, in Shelbyville, the son of Norman and Rosemary (Thomas) Gahimer. On September 10, 1977, he married his wife of 48 years, Kim Sichting, and she survives.

In addition to Kim, Jerry is survived by his daughter, Miranda Compton and husband, Chris, of Indianapolis; son, Curtis Gahimer and wife, Kelley, of Indianapolis; grandchildren, Liam and Mila; brothers, Norm Gahimer of Shelbyville, and Phil Gahimer and wife, Doretta, of Manilla; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Kenneth Gahimer and Jeffrey Gahimer; and sister, Karen Williams.

In 1973, Jerry graduated from Rushville High School. He obtained his bachelors degree from Purdue University in Mechanical Engineering Technology, and he worked hard to earn his professional engineering license.

He attended the former Grace Wesleyan Church in Shelbyville.

Jerry retired in 2021 with over 45 years of service as a mechanical engineer. A majority of his career was spent as the Vice-President of Engineering at Wellman Furnaces.

He enjoyed classic cars, and he was especially proud of his 1985 Monte Carlo SS, that he purchased brand new. His final years were spent meticulously restoring the car back to it’s original state.

Jerry was a model train enthusiast and took it up as a serious hobby to enjoy with his grandson, Liam. Every Christmas, the family gathered to see the new Christmas train layout and partake in the scavenger hunt for all the small and important details Jerry built into the design.

Jerry had a deep love for Purdue sports, especially basketball and football. He attended many games and loved watching the marching band. Go Boilers!

But by far the greatest times in Jerry’s life were spent with his loving and devoted family. He enjoyed big family meals, especially hosting Thanksgiving, and being surrounded by those he loved.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 pm, Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at Freeman Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, 819 S. Harrison St. in Shelbyville.

Funeral services will be at 10 am, Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at the funeral home, with his daughter-in-law, Rev. Kelley Jepsen officiating.

Interment will be at Zion Cemetery in Shelby County.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Cancer Association of Shelby County, PO Box 844, Shelbyville, Indiana 46176.

Online condolences may be shared with Jerry’s family at www.freemanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.