Gerald A Marchini

Gerald Anthony Marchini of East Falls, passed away unexpectedly October 7, 2020. Born November 12, 1950 in North Philadelphia, Swampoodle neighborhood; Jerry spent childhood summers at his family’s home in Wildwood, NJ and also lived several years in Roxborough and Newtown, Bucks County. He was the eldest son of William T. Marchini and Florence (nee DeGregorio).

Jerry was a loving husband, father and grandfather, to his wife Mary, children Gregory and Danielle and granddaughter Gina. Also survived by his brothers Thomas (Lynn) and Michael (Olga and her daughter Justina) and nieces Danniele (Frank) and Ashley (Travis).

Jerry attended St. Mary of the Eternal School and graduated from Roman Catholic High School where he excelled at academics. He worked his way through college at the Tasty Baking Company (Tastykake) to attain his B.S. in Business Administration from LaSalle University.

The pride of his youth was his family's 1969 Chevrolet SS 396 Chevelle. Jerry admired car designs from British coupes to Italian roadsters to American Muscle. His most loved cars were his Chevelle and his 1978 Datsun 280Z (both were shades of blue). He was a regular attendee of the annual Philadelphia auto show with his brother Mike.

September 1972, Jerry was drafted into the US Army in the final round of draftees; stationed in the 3/11 ACR in Bad Hersfeld, West Germany. Before returning home to Philadelphia, Jerry bought a classic Hi-Fi system with Bose speakers, dual turntable and Marantz receiver. His son Gregory recently refurbished this stereo system and plans to keep it forever.

After returning home from military service, Jerry spent a few years in banking before entering a long career in the insurance industry. He attained the CPCU professional designation in property-casualty insurance and risk-management and worked as an account executive, broker and consultant for over 30 years.

Jerry was a music afficionado. He loved Rock N’ Roll, Jazz and Soul; from Joe Pass to Jimi Hendrix. Listening to Steely Dan, chatting about The Beatles recording history and shopping for obscure jazz CDs and 60’s soul records were some of his favorite things. His collection of 45-rpm vinyl records is still with his brother Tom.

No conversation with Jerry was complete without a mention of Philadelphia sports. Whether it was the current news about the Eagles or the Phillies, or a history of the greats, sports were always on his mind. Baseball was his primary love, just like his father. His hometown teams were his favorites, and he had great stories of LaSalle basketball games during his college years.

Jerry's love for history did not stop at baseball or music; he was also a historian of World War II. From his childhood love of the war planes like the P-51 Mustang, to the books he read on war strategy and the great generals, to his love of the History Channel documentaries. He was happy to share detailed stories about the major battles, on land and at sea, and many of his favorite movies were the World War II classics.

Jerry was proud of his Italian heritage; he shared many spirited conversations with friends and family over great Italian meals with a glass of red wine. Well known for his style, he exuded a sophisticated appearance in his meticulously curated wardrobe. Jerry was refined, intelligent, easy going, and very likeable.

Jerry’s family has wonderful memories of traveling with him on many road trips and cruises, attending Broadway musicals, and visiting museums. His companionship, knowledge, wisdom, and sarcastic humor will be greatly missed.

A private service was held for the immediate family on Sunday, October 11.

Please share your condolences and memories at www.kollerfuneralhome.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gerald A Marchini, please visit our floral store.