Jerry Gilge

Jerry Dean Gilge, 80, formerly of Garwin, passed away on Thursday, February 1, 2024 at Westbrook Acres Nursing Home in Gladbrook.

Cremation rites have been accorded and a memorial service by the family will be held on Saturday, April 6, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. in the community building at the Garwin city park. Please join to share memories with family and friends. For more information or to send a condolence, please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234. Mitchell Family Funeral Home is caring for Jerry and his family.

Jerry Gilge was born on January 27, 1944 in Des Moines. He was the son of Eric and Dorothy (Peterson) Gilge. He graduated from Clinton High School in 1962 and then went on to receive his two-year business degree. Jerry was married to Judy O’Hern in 1963 and they later divorced. Later in life, Jerry met Kathleen Wedgwood at Strands Bakery and they were united in marriage on April 3, 1976 in Gilman. Jerry retired early from Fisher Controls as a machinist and later worked at Dayco. He was a member of the UAW Local 893 in Marshalltown, and served as the Chief Steward. Jerry enjoyed camping, playing cribbage, gardening and yard work and enjoyed drinking coffee with his friends and neighbors. He also enjoyed throwing the tennis ball with his dachshund: Bobby.

Jerry is survived by his children: Dan Gilge of Urbandale, Clay (Tracy) Gilge of Altoona, Tesha (Scott) Sederburg of Marshalltown, Lynette (Brad) Harris of Grinnell and Eric Gilge of Des Moines. He is also survived by sixteen grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren with one on the way; sister-in-law: Renee Gilge and numerous family and friends.

Jerry is preceded in death by his wife: Kathleen; daughter: Connie Gilge; grand-daughter: Kaylee Gilge; parents: Eric and Dorothy and brother: Jim Gilge.