On October 3, 2019, Dr. Gerald M. "Jerry" Gregorek (September 7, 1931-2019) completed his final approach and landing, surrounded by family and friends: his wife, M. L. Carol (nee, Procell) and daughters Jean, Susan (David Schweibinz), and Leighanna (Jake DeRouen) survive him. His son, David Michael, preceded him in death.
Known affectionately as "Dr. G," Jerry dedicated over 66 years to the Department of Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering at Ohio State University, where he was a student and later a faculty member. His impact extended beyond the academic realm as he inspired students through teaching and innovative research in aerodynamics, aircraft flight-test, airfoil design, and high-speed vehicle design, always motivating and encouraging.
Raised on the east side of Cleveland to proud Polish immigrants Michael C. and Mary Genevieve (Lucas) Gregorek, Jerry showcased technical prowess and quick reflexes as a baseball shortstop. He was a B-29 flight engineer in the US Air Force during the Korean War before pursuing aeronautical engineering at Ohio State.
Jerry's extensive career included roles as Chair of the Department of Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering, Director of the Aeronautical and Astronautical Laboratory, and Director of the OSU Don Scott Airport. He received numerous accolades, including being a Fellow of the American Institute of Aeronautics & Astronautics (AIAA), a member of the Supersonic Wind Tunnel Association, American Society of Engineering Education (ASEE), International Astronautical Federation (IAF) (awarded the Melina Medal), Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI), Ohio Executive of the Year for Industry and Technology, Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), and recognition from many other national and international professional societies.
In his honor, the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering established the Gerald M. Gregorek Excellence in Teaching Award. The Gerald M. Gregorek Scholarship Endowed Fund was established.
Beyond academia, Jerry had a lifelong passion for education, transitioning from model airplane building to model rocket building, education, and competition. His involvement in space modeling, including organizing the first USSR space modeling competition and representing the United States internationally, established him as a pioneer in the field.
During his son David's lengthy illness in the 1960s, Jerry utilized his model-building talent to engage Dave in a less strenuous competitive sport – space modeling.
A lifelong Ohio State football fan, Jerry cherished five decades of watching the Buckeyes from the 50-yard line of C Deck.
Jerry's boundless enthusiasm for life, sense of humor, and limitless love for his wife and family defined him beyond his professional achievements. He will be deeply missed by family, friends, students, and colleagues who shared his remarkable journey. Jerry's journey outside the moon-earth system into deep space aboard the Enterprise mission is a perpetual tribute to him. Rest in peace in the blue skies, Dr. G.
