Gerald Edward Xaver (Gerry), 83, of Greenville, SC passed away quietly at home on Friday, September 25, 2015 after a courageous battle with cancer.

He was born on April 1, 1932 in Chicago, IL the youngest child of Benjamin F. Xaver and Florence L. Richard.

He is survived by his seven children: Kathleen T. (Charles) McParland, Ruth A. (James) Martin, Richard F. Xaver (Penelope Cole), Nancy J. Silvers, Steven J. (Pamela) Xaver, Sharon L. Guess and Carol M. Modlin, as well as 20 Grandchildren, and 17 Great-grandchildren.

Gerald was married to his high school sweetheart, Jacqueline Lou Heeter on June 23, 1951, who preceded him in death on November 16, 2012. He was also preceded in death by his three siblings: Adalene Schoner, Lorraine Havens and Francis Xaver, as well as his son-in-law, Tiny Modlin.

Gerald had a long career as a Pattern Maker, working various shops in Indiana and Michigan that supported the auto industry. He enjoyed playing card games, including Bridge and “Hand n Foot”.

Gerald is best remembered as a talented woodworker and carpenter who created many beautiful things valued by friends as well as his family.

A private memorial service will be planned at a later date. Memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital and the Cancer Society of Greenville, SC