Born on September 26, 1943 in Algona, IA to Hugo and Marie (Gebel Kraft) Gade. Jerry lived a full and meaningful life marked by his kindness to all and unwavering devotion to his family and his community. A man of principle and purpose, he worked hard, loved deeply, and gave generously of his time and talents. He never met a stranger–always quick to strike up a conversation and find a connection. His warmth and genuine interest in others left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Jerry spent his life dedicated to his community as a teacher and administrator. Jerry graduated from Algona High School in 1961. He was united in marriage to Beverly Kay Bachman on August 29, 1965. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Mathematics Education from UNI in 1968 and Master’s Degree in Administration from Mankato State College in 1972. Jerry taught math in Ringsted, IA for 4 years and served as a principal for 24 years in the Laurens and BCLUW Community School Districts. Jerry was a member of Phi Delta Kappa, Kiwanis, Lions Club, Audubon Society, Promise Keepers, First Presbyterian Church of Conrad for 50 years, and served as a church elder.

He was a man who believed in doing things the right way and always offered a helping hand. In the winter, he was often found snow blowing not only his own driveway but his entire neighborhood. Jerry was a lifelong Green Bay Packer fan, a devoted Hawkeye supporter, and a familiar face at local school sporting events. Most recently he won the hearts of his granddaughter’s mock trial team and was proudly welcomed as an honorary member.

He enjoyed reading the daily newspaper, classic movies, backyard campfires, biking, golfing, camping, and fishing. Some of his favorite fishing trips were to Canada with family. A passionate card player, Jerry especially loved bridge, but also enjoyed euchre, pepper, cribbage (Evee & John still owe him money), and the fiercely competitive family card game of Up and Down the River, which he proudly taught all his grandkids as soon as they could hold cards. He shared many special evenings attending plays and concerts with Bev.

Above all, he cherished his family. He is survived by his wife Beverly Gade, daughter Kristin (Jeff) Fox, son John (Nicole) Gade, grandchildren Zachary (Racquel) Fox, Evan Fox, Griffin Gade, Evee Gade, sister-in-law Sharon Gade, brother-in-law Frank Overton and many nieces and nephews. His legacy lives on in the values he instilled and the countless stories we will share for generations to come. As the youngest of 8 siblings, Jerry was preceded in death by his parents Hugo and Marie Gade, siblings Lew (Vera) Gade, Bob Gade, Norman (Betty) Gade, Helen (Lee) Hays, Marlene Overton, Jim (JoAnn) Gade, Margaret (Walter) Pillsbury.

The family requests that memorials be directed to the Conrad Public Library and the First Presbyterian Church of Conrad, IA.

We are grateful for the time we had with him and comforted by the knowledge that his spirit lives on in each of us.

HONK, HONK!!!! Bushel and a peck… “Old Foot Wedge”