Jerome, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. He passed peacefully as he lived peacefully. He was a devoted Roman Catholic and knew he would be with Jesus when he passed.

He lived a life defined by kindness, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to those he held dear.

Jerome shared a beautiful marriage with his beloved wife, Darlyne, for nearly 67 years—a partnership rooted in love, respect, and enduring devotion. Together, they built a family that became the center of his world.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Helen, and his mother-in-law, Esther.

He is lovingly remembered by his sister MaryAnn & her husband Jim; his brother-in-law Darrell & his wife Dawn; along with his cherished children: Chuck & wife Clara, Mark, Tammy & husband Jeff. Jerome believed deeply that family was the true treasure in life. 

His legacy continues through his adored grandchildren: Crystal & Lider, Emily & Nate, Kelli, AJ & Lea, Jameason & Nikki, Conner, and Kurt & Kendra; as well as 14 great-grandchildren (Selena, Gabriella, Lilly, Warren, Alice (Sissy), Cameron, Arlo, Wesley, Walker, William, Ellum, Ollie, Jayce, Owen and one more girl eagerly awaited). 

His love for his family was constant and unwavering, and his presence in their lives will be profoundly missed.

Jerome found joy in life’s simple pleasures—playing cards, gardening, hunting, and fishing—but nothing brought him greater happiness than time spent with his family. Papa/Fishing Buddy was known as a bit of a teaser, always ready with a playful joke or lighthearted mischief that brought smiles and laughter to those around him. His great-grandchildren especially delighted in his playful trick of pulling dollar bills from behind their ears.

Following his career, Jerry lived 28 years in retirement. He loved living on Lake Osakis and spending winters in Maui and Arizona, and treasured the many places he was able to visit. He and Darlyne shared a love of travel, creating memories together everywhere they went—from Japan to Maui to Africa to Australia, even as recently as two years ago. No matter how far he traveled, home was always where his heart was—right beside his best friend and wife, Darlyne.

He believed strongly in giving back and generously volunteered his time with the Catholic Church, the Linwood Lions Club, the Douglas County Watershed, the Osakis VFW (despite not being a veteran), and the Sahuarita Food Shelf. Jerry loved giving back wherever he could - volunteering up until just 2 years ago at the Sahuarita food shelf.

He will be remembered as a happy man who lived by and taught an enduring truth: “It’s not money that counts—it’s family that makes you rich.”

Jerry was the “human resources” man in life. Many family and friends went to him with their concerns. He always had an open heart and open mind. Jerry did not believe in putting labels on people. He accepted all! 

If you were a friend, you were family! 

Jerry’s love, laughter, and wisdom will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be remembered not only for his larger-than-life personality but for the joy, laughter, and love he shared so freely. His legacy lives on in the memories, stories, and smiles of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He will be missed.

Memorial Mass will be held Monday, May 11th, 2026, 11:00 am at St Joan of Arc Catholic Community Church, 4537 3rd Ave. South, Minneapolis, MN 55419.  Visitation with the family will be held from 10:00–11:00 AM, followed by the Memorial Service.

For a live-stream link to watch the service, go to:  https://youtube.com/live/z5eYqCT_Dqc?feature=share

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Jerry’s name to: Hope for the Community, Elko New Market, 1264 109th Ave NE, Blaine, MN 55434   https://hopeforthecommunity.com/donate/