Gerald A. O’Malley, 70, of Chicago, a retired captain of the Chicago Fire Department, died Wednesday at Little Company of Mary Hospital in Evergreen Park. Mr. O’Malley, who was born in Chicago, attended Harper High School. He took exams to become both a firefighter and police officer, but decided to join the Chicago Fire Department. In 1990, he retired from Engine Company No. 41 after 38 years of service. Mr. O’Malley was a mentor to many younger firefighters, giving them advice and guidance, said his son, Gerald. “He enjoyed going to work every day because of the camaraderie,” he said. “He felt that the department was part of his family.” Mr. O’Malley was also president and treasurer of the Chicago Firefighter’s Credit Union. In addition to his son, he is survived by his wife, Mary Ellen; two daughters, Ann Marie Blair and Laura Ellen Lipinski; two brothers, Eugene and James; a sister, Bernadette; and a grandson. Mass will be said 10 a.m. Monday at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 8100 S. California Ave.
