Remembering Gerald “Jerry” Lenihan: A Las Vegas Life Honored

Gerald “Jerry” Lenihan, a beloved figure with deep roots in both Chicago and Las Vegas, passed away on November 8, 2025, in Las Vegas. His life, marked by service, family, and a generous spirit, touched many in our community and beyond.

From Chicago’s South Side to Vietnam

Born March 27, 1948, in Chicago to Dennis Edward Lenihan and Bernice Trinker, Jerry’s heritage traced back to Ireland and Bohemia. He grew up in the South Side’s Canaryville neighborhood, where he helped his parents run their dairy store. After graduating from De La Salle High School, he bravely served as a medic in the Army during the Vietnam War, a testament to his commitment and courage.

Building a Family and New Beginnings

Early Family Life in Chicago

Upon returning to Chicago, Jerry met and married his former wife, Nancy Killeen, in 1971. Their union quickly grew, welcoming four children in as many years, keeping life wonderfully busy. Jerry worked as a Stationary Engineer for the Chicago Public Schools, a role his children fondly remember for allowing them to visit and play in the school gym, even spending time with the school cat when it had kittens.

Making a Home in Las Vegas

The Lenihan family made the significant move to Las Vegas in 1980, embracing a new chapter in the desert. Here, Jerry initially ventured into entrepreneurship by owning and operating a landscaping business, sometimes with the “help” of his young children. Later, he dedicated two decades of service to Bally’s, working as a Senior Watch Day Operating Engineer with local 501. In 1999, he married Susan Ettinger, his wife of 26 years, with whom he shared the joys and challenges of a lively household often filled with visiting children and grandchildren.

A Man of Practicality and Warmth

Jerry’s personality shone brightly in many aspects of his life. His travels with his brother and “best buddy,” Denny, took them to iconic American landscapes like Monument Valley and the Grand Canyon, as well as international destinations such as Ireland and Hawaii. He was known for his quick, reassuring response when one of his children announced a plumbing or electrical issue: “Don’t touch anything. I’ll be right over.” His generosity was legendary, often sending loved ones home with thoughtful parting gifts from his Sam’s Club shopping trips. He cherished his dogs—Honcho, Lucy, Kerry, Kacy, and Buddy—and always kept up with the activities of his many grandchildren, demonstrating his deep love and connection to his family.

Remembering Jerry: Memorial and Lasting Legacy

Gerald “Jerry” Lenihan is survived by his loving wife, Susan Ettinger; his brother Dennis (Colleen); and his devoted children: Kathleen Lenihan (Daryl Wiesen) of Lexington, MA; Maureen Rust (Jonathan) of Huntington Beach, CA; Brian (Kathy) and Peggy Fowler (Matthew), both residing in Las Vegas. He also leaves behind nine cherished grandchildren: Maeve, Clare, and Michael Wiesen; Owen, Molly, and Connor Lenihan; and Emma, Sophie, and Maggie Fowler, who will carry on his memory.

Details regarding Jerry’s memorial service can be found at www.online-tribute.com/GeraldLenihan. For those wishing to express sympathy through flowers or by planting a memorial tree, options are available through the provided floral store links on his obituary page.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gerald “Jerry” Lenihan

• How can I find details about Gerald Lenihan’s memorial service?
  Information regarding Jerry’s memorial service is available online at www.online-tribute.com/GeraldLenihan.
• What was Jerry Lenihan’s connection to Las Vegas?
  Jerry moved to Las Vegas in 1980, where he owned a landscaping business and later dedicated two decades to Bally’s as a Senior Watch Day Operating Engineer. He lived here for many decades, making our city his true home.
• Can I send flowers or plant a tree in his memory?
  Yes, you can send flowers or plant a memorial tree directly to the family through the tribute store links provided on his obituary page.
• Who handled Jerry Lenihan’s funeral arrangements?
  Funeral arrangements for Gerald “Jerry” Lenihan were handled by Palm Eastern Mortuary here in Las Vegas.

Jerry Lenihan’s memory will continue to live on through the many lives he touched in Las Vegas, Chicago, and beyond, a testament to a life well-lived and deeply loved within our community.

Remembering Jerry Lenihan A Life of Service Honored