Obituary

Gerald “Jerry” Bernard Handler, 95. Beloved husband of the late June (née Hess) and the late Harriet (née Lew); loving father of Robert (Linda) Handler, Susan (Wesley) Nissen, Lisa (Brian) Ackerman, and Howard (Deborah) Handler; cherished grandfather of Nathan and Matthew Handler, Andrew (Samantha) Nissen, Hallie (Bradley) Margolin, Gabbie and Josie Ackerman, Isabella and Harrison Guidara, and Eloise Handler; adored great-grandfather of Leo Nissen, Layla and Jonah Margolin; treasured uncle, great-uncle, and friend to many. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, the late Pearl (née Greenband) and William Handler, and his brother, the late Dr. Raymond (Arlene) Handler. Jerry was a pharmacist who owned independent pharmacies in the Chicago area for more than 40 years. He was our rock: the most loyal, devoted, and supportive son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and friend. A true mensch. Memorial donations in his name to Jewish United Fund, www.juf.org. Chapel service, Friday, August 7, 2026; 12:15 PM at Shalom Memorial Funeral Home 1700 W. Rand Road, Arlington Heights. Interment to follow at Shalom Memorial Park. For the link to view the service, shiva information, and to leave condolences: www.shalommemorial.org or (847) 255-3520.

Service Information

Service : Friday, August 7th at 12:15 pm
Service Location: Shalom Chapel Service -Shalom Memorial Funeral Home

Interment:
Shalom Memorial Park
1700 W. Rand Road
Arlington Heights

Guest Book & Memories

Share your memories and photographs below.

August 8th, 2026

The Starkman family sends our deepest condolences for your loss. We have wonderful memories of Jerry & June and Ray & Arlene and Loraine and Jules coming for simchas and vists .

The Starkman’s Family

~Yetta Starkman
~Cousins, Toronto, Ontario

August 7th, 2026

WTH OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO THE HANDLER FAMILY.. WE HAVE THE FONDEST MEMORIES OF JERRY AND JUNE.
WE HOPE THE GREAT MEMORIES OF JERRY WILL HELP YOU DURING THIS TIME OF GRIEVING.
JERRY WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED…..NEVER FORGOTTEN.

ALL OUR LOVE,
NESSA HOLZMAN AND FAMILY

~Nessa Holzman
~Friend, Glenview

August 6th, 2026

Condolences to your entire family. Ninety five years of life is a tremendous testament to the love and care surrounding your entire family. Cherish the memories, even the difficult ones, as they each made you who you are today.

~Ebony Scott-Anderson
~Friend of Debbie and Howard, Chicago, IL

August 6th, 2026

My deepest condolences to you and your family. May your father-in-law’s memory be a source of comfort to you all

~Dianne
~Friend of Linda Handler,

August 6th, 2026

This is the last time I saw Cousin Jerry with help, from Lisa and Bob (2016). I was so grateful and happy to reconnect Myra Horn

Dear Family
While my visits to Chicago were sparse Jerry always made time to see me.
You have a very loving family. A true legacy. May his memory be a blessing and comfort all Love Myra& family

~Myra Horn
~Cousin, Columbia, MD

August 6th, 2026

Having a wonderful chat with Jerry at the Chicago family Century reunion in 2018

~Susan Vernon (nee Century)
~Cousin, Brentwood England

August 6th, 2026

My deepest condolences to the Handler Family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

~Nicole Born
~Friend of Lisa Handler Ackerman, Hammond, IN

  • Photo By Myra Horn : This is the last time I saw Cousin Jerry with help, from Lisa and Bob (2016). I was so grateful and happy to reconnect

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