Gerald Roger Halse, known as “Jerry,” passed away on January 31, 2024, at Winn Med, Decorah, Iowa, at the age of 71.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at Decorah Lutheran Church, 309 Winnebago St., Decorah, Iowa, with Rev. Peter Kowitz presiding.
Visitation will be from 5–7 p.m. on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at Helms Funeral Home, 306 E Water St. in Decorah and after 10 a.m. at the church on Wednesday.
Born on May 23, 1952, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, he was son to the late Roger and Grayce (Halvorson) Halse, brother to four siblings, and father to Jennifer Margaret and John Gerald. Jerry graduated from North Winneshiek High School in 1970 and furthered his education at Iowa State University. Jerry learned the value of hard work starting at a young age, as a farm kid. He would often tell stories of the responsibilities he had at a young age, as well as the fun he and his siblings would have such as all five of them getting on the bull when their parents weren’t around. He dedicated over 17 years working for the city of Decorah, Water Department. In his later years, he returned to working in the grocery business and could often be found doing handyman work. He loved to keep busy, and right up until the end was talking about getting better so he could work again. Jerry was a member of the Lions Club in Mabel, Minn., and community member of Decorah, Iowa.
Jerry was known for his love of racing! You could often find him in the garage working on his race cars, devising a plan for the next win. He gained many close friends in the racing community. He passed his love of racing to his son John. Jerry was very particular and enjoyed body work as well as painting race cars. Through the years, he sharpened his pool and foosball skills and would enjoy challenging anyone that came to his man cave, along with a competitive game of cards. He enjoyed socializing with friends at the Legion in Mabel. He always made sure everyone was having a good time and had plenty to eat and drink. He had a special place in his heart for his beloved dog Bella.
Jerry fell in love and married Wilma Paquillo on July 15, 2015. Jerry and Wilma enjoyed camping in the summers, car shows, antique shopping, and frequenting many different restaurants for good food.
Jerry is preceded in death by his parents and the mother of his children, Margaret (Dotzler) Halse.
He leaves behind his memories to his wife Wilma, his daughter Jennifer Henry, her husband Steven and children Kollin and Garrett; son John Halse, his significant other Cara and her children Parker and Noah; along with Jerry’s siblings, Barbara (Tim) Mueller, Randall (Nancy) Halse, Dennis (Jodi) Halse, and Becky (Mike) Behrens; and several nieces and nephews.