Obituary of Gerald John Veenhuis

Gerald John Veenhuis was born to Emma and Carl Veenhuis on February 2, 1937 in Heron Lake MN. He had two brothers and two sisters. Gerald passed peacefully at home on February 27, 2025 from lung cancer.

He is survived by his wife Sharon, sister Betty Polcow, son David Veenhuis, daughter Nancy Hemanckson, seven grandchildren, step-daughter Crickett Lancaster, step-son Dennis Kozelka; and daughter-in-law, Jenny Dixon.

Gerald grew up on a farm in southern MN. He left school after the 9th grade to help on the family farm, later obtaining his GED. At age 15, he obtained his dynamite license. A couple of years later, much to his father's dismay, Gerald joined the Army.

After being selected for the Army's Security Service, Gerald received training in Japan in the home of the last Japanese serviceman to leave Okinawa, Colonel Tyoko (Ret.). Gerry performed many heroic acts, not only for the military but for citizens as well, including assisting to deliver a baby in a field in Korea. He was awarded the Purple Heart and other medals for his service. He was also one of the first people to hear the signals from Sputnik.

After leaving active duty, Gerry returned to the Midwest to work as a deputy sheriff, dispatcher for the MN Highway Patrol, and eventually the supervisor of the Communications Center for the MNHP. After 30 years with the MNHP, he retired.

In his retirement, Gerry enjoyed carpentry, building stringed instruments, gardening, and relaxing outside while getting to know the local wildlife, making friends with many, many animals. He was a kind and gentle man with a deep love for animals and people alike, and a sense of humour that was present until the very end.

Gerry's celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 15 at French River Lutheran Church in Duluth MN. Visitation at 10am, service at 11am, military honor guard and luncheon to follow. The service may be viewed online at www.youtube.com/@FrenchRiverLutheranChurch beginning at 11am. No flowers, please.