Gerald “Gerry” Hendershot, age 72, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2023, after a long courageous battle with leukemia. He was predeceased by his parents, Melvin and Jean Hendershot; his brothers, Melvin Jr. and Donald; and his granddaughter, Molly Hendershot. Gerry is survived by his wife of 49 years, Ann; daughters, Allison Hendershot and Lindsay Haulenbeek; son-in-law, Bill Haulenbeek; and grandchildren, Riley and Owen Hendershot, Warren and Annabelle Haulenbeek, and dearest friends, Frank and Donna Murano, Alberto and Kathryn Santos. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and a most loyal friend.

Gerry was the owner of Empire Laundry Machinery, Inc., having a long successful career in commercial laundry, and was well-known in the business community. He loved classic cars and was an avid boater in Clayton, NY in the Thousand Islands.

Gerry was instrumental in the formation of the Sigma Tau Chi Alumni Association at SUNY Oswego, having served as President and Vice-President. He leaves behind many “brothers” who were a valued part of his life.

Donations in Gerry’s memory can be made to the URMC Wilmot Cancer Center on their website,

urmc.rochester.edu/cancer-institute/giving/make-a-gift. A celebration of Gerry’s life will be announced at a later date.