Gerald "Jerry" Witte

Gerald "Jerry" Ernest Witte, 86, of Chatfield, died Jan. 27, 2018, at Saint Marys Hospital in Rochester, with family by his side.

Jerry was born Jan. 3, 1932, in Chatfield, to Grace (Schermerhorne) and Ernest Witte.

He graduated from Chosen Valley High School in Chatfield, where he lettered in all sports that were offered and where he was a Golden Gloves Boxer. On Jan. 29, 1952, he married Georgia Weber at St. Bridget Church in Simpson. They resided in Chatfield, before moving to Tampa Bay, Fla., for a short period of time, before settling back down in Chatfield.

He is survived by his wife, Georgia; two half-sisters, Elizabeth (Mike) Friemann and Marcella (Kent) Kulawske; three daughters, Robin Kent, Sue Schuchard and Tonia Hareldson, all of Chatfield; four grandchildren, Angela Hareldson of Rochester, David (Carrie) Kent of Rochester, Tina (John) Slawson of Chatfield and Amanda Schuchard of Rochester; three great-grandchildren, Breanna Schuchard, and Katrina and Jarrod Slawson; and two stepgreat-grandchildren, Austin and Katelynn Slawson. He is preceded in death by his parents, stepfather, stepmother, one brother and two sons-in-law.

He worked as a union plasterer for many years before becoming a self-employed plasterer.

He enjoyed being a jokester, fishing, camping, traveling, hosting barbecues and spending time with his family. He will forever be remembered for his fun-loving spirit.

The family would like to thank Mayo Hospice and the nurses on Joseph 3G, for all the great care that was given to Jerry.

Jerry wished for a private graveside service.

The family wishes friends to join in a celebration of life from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, at the Chatfield VFW.

Condolences may be sent to the Family: C/O Mrs. Georgia Witte and family, PO Box 506, Chatfield, MN, 55923.