John Jerry Anderson

 

     John Jerry Anderson, son of the late Karl Frederick Anderson and Agnes (Christenson) Anderson, was born on February 16, 1943. Jerry’s Early childhood years he grew up on a farm near Laurens, Ia. and later a farm near Gillette Grove, IA. He attended the last nine years and graduated High School from Gillette Grove Consolidated School. Upon graduation, Jerry worked in several trades from construction, delivery driver for Spencer Dairy, supervisor at Morton Buildings and delivery driver for Terrace Park Dairy. After a severe truck accident while healing, Jerry pursued an AA Degree in Data Processing at Iowa Lakes Community College and graduated in 1981. His career began and led to a long-term position with BKD Accounting as a computer Programmer / Analyst.

     On Saturday, May 20, 2023, Jerry passed away at the Spencer Hospital at the age of 80 years and 3 months.

Jerry’s passions were watching Gunsmoke with his best buddy Festus, camping, strumming a guitar / singing around campfires, spending time with family and friends, attending bluegrass festivals and programming computers. At an early age, Jerry shared his mother’s passion for playing guitar. Jerry enjoyed playing many stringed instruments from acoustical and electric guitars, steel guitar, ukulele and banjo. Later, Jerry started recording his music and entertaining at public gatherings and nursing homes. Jerry was always good at storytelling, humor and would bring smiles to others and have a smile no matter how good or bad of a day he was having.

     Left to cherish Jerry’s memories are his Wife Delma Anderson, Ex Wife Doris Anderson, Son Brad (Kathy)Anderson, Daughter Rhonda (Aaron) Firkins, Son Curt (Julie) Anderson, Stepson Josh McClain, Stepdaughter Jennifer McClain, Grandsons: Cody Firkins, Marc (Tiffany) Anderson and Brandon (Jenna) Anderson, Granddaughter: Danielle (Sean Westrum) Firkins and several Great Grandchildren.

Jerry was preceded in death by his Parents, Karl and Agnes Anderson, Sister Beverly (Arnold) Sonksen.