Jerry L. Reese, 88, died Thursday July 29, 2021 at his home in Garden City. Jerry was born on Feb. 24, 1933 at the family home in Copeland to Victor E. and Jenny Marie (Sommerville) Reese.
Jerry attended and graduated from the local schools and went on to serve in the Army. On Nov. 9, 1957, he married Sonya Unruh. Jerry and Sonya farmed near Copeland until 1984 when they moved to Johnson. In 1990, they moved to Garden City where he worked for the maintenance department at IBP.
Jerry was undeniably hardworking and stubborn. He was an avid crossword player, witty and fun-loving; remembered by his family for being quite the character. He enjoyed taking vacations and camping, doing anything outdoors. In his spare time he refereed various leagues and was a fan of all sports. Above all Jerry loved his family dearly.
He is survived by his children- Deborah Wells (Steve Flynn) of Le Mars, Iowa, Sherry Perkins of Garden City, Becky (Koll) Graybill of Copeland, Kevin (Jodi) Reese of Carroll, Iowa. Grandchildren- Prior Wells, Randy Moody, Kyle Rutledge, Justin Long, KT Graybill, Callie Graybill, and Angela Perkins. Siblings- Roger Reese, Barbara Downing, and Victor Reese. Along with numerous great-grandchildren and extended family.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, wife- Sonya, three brothers, two sisters, and granddaughter- Sonni Rutledge.
A memorial service will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021 at the Copeland United Methodist Church in Copeland, with Pastor Doug Harris officiating. Burial will follow in the Copeland Cemetery with graveside rites by the District #8 American Legion Honor Guard.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Legion in care of Garnand Funeral Home. Condolences may be posted by visiting www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.