Jerry LeRoy Larson

Jerry LeRoy Larson, 81, passed away on September 5th surrounded by his family, leaving behind a legacy of joy, service, and love. Born November 14, 1943, in Webster City, Iowa, Jerry was the beloved son of LeRoy and Jorene (Jorgensen) Larson.

Jerry’s earliest years were shaped by family and resilience—living with his mother and grandparents in Blairsburg, Iowa while his father served in World War II. He often shared treasured memories of reuniting with his dad at age two and of later childhood adventures, like playing in the University of Iowa’s stadium while his father completed his doctorate in special education. His youth also took him to Phoenix, Arizona, for elementary school and then to Aberdeen, South Dakota, where he thrived in middle and high school both in the classroom and on the court and field.

Jerry attended Augustana College, earning degrees in history and psychology, and excelling as a multi-sport athlete—eventually earning Hall of Fame recognition in three sports. He also celebrated being part of the Aberdeen Eagles’ 1962 state basketball championship team, an achievement he cherished throughout his life. He went on to earn a master’s degree in sociology from the University of South Dakota and later advanced studies in criminology and criminal justice at the University of Maryland, College Park.

In June 1967, Jerry married the love of his life, Cheryl Hatlestad, daughter of Paul and Madeline Hatlestad. Together they built a family rooted in faith, laughter, and service.

Jerry began his teaching career in 1968 at Black Hills State University in Spearfish, South Dakota, before joining the sociology faculty at Augustana College in Sioux Falls. His teaching journey continued at the University of Maryland and, for 22 years, at Iowa Lakes Community College in Estherville, Iowa. Known for his passion for learning and connecting with students, Jerry received the National Teaching Award in 1991 and was celebrated for his role in founding a student volunteer center at Augustana. After retiring from teaching, he worked for 12 years at Avera Wellness Center, where he continued to enrich the lives of those around him.

Jerry’s love of music brought joy to him and those who knew him. A violinist, member of the all-state choir, and participant in a small men’s barbershop group, music remained central to his life—especially in his later years, when his earphones filled his days with comfort and meaning.

Faith and service were guiding pillars of Jerry’s life. He served as Sunday School superintendent, teacher, and Vacation Bible School director, roles he cherished while raising his children. He gave back through countless community initiatives, including serving as President of Friends of the Library in Estherville. A lifelong athlete and coach, he shared his love of tennis with many, mentoring his own sons into accomplished players and inspiring generations on the court.

Jerry will be remembered for his happy personality, inclusive spirit, sense of humor, and authentic way of connecting with people. He embodied service-mindedness, athleticism, and fun-loving energy, enriching every community in which he was engaged.

The family is grateful for Jerry's many caregivers from Bethany Home, Arlen Vista his Stephen Minister, and his loyal friend David Donahoe. They enriched his life on his Alzheimer’s journey.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Cheryl; their children Betsy (Chris) Kringen, Matthew (Libby) Larson, and Nathaniel (Brittny) Larson; 10 grandchildren Jacob (Anna) Kringen, Madelyn Kringen, Joshua Kringen, Elijah Larson, Brynn Larson, Lucy Larson, Liam Larson, Brennan Larson, Elliot Larson, and Emmersyn Larson; one great-grandson Luca Kringen; his sister Linda(Don) LoBue, sister in law Rita, sister in law Karen Fernengel, sister in law Sharyl Hatlestad, brother in law David Hatlestad, brother in law Peter (Brenda) Hatlestad, and many nieces and nephews. He is also remembered fondly by extended family, friends, former students, and teammates whose lives he touched.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, LeRoy and Jorene Larson; his parents in law, Paul and Madeline Hatlestad; his brother, Richard Larson; and brothers-in-law, Steven Hatlestad and Frederick Fernengel.

A Celebration of Life will take place Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at 11:00am at Heritage Funeral Home. A Visitation will be held Monday, September 22, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00pm at Heritage Funeral Home. Burial will take place Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at 9:00am at the Norway Cemetery rural Garretson, SD.

In Lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Alzheimer Association, Bethany Home Foundation, Norway Cemetery, or a Charity of your choice.