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Jerry Thomas Grings
1940 - 2020
Jerry Thomas Grings
1940 - 2020
Obituary
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Jerry Grings Obituary
Jerry Thomas Grings
June 28, 1940 - November 28, 2020
Jerry Thomas Grings, 80, of Moscow, IA, passed away Saturday, November 28, 2020 at Trinity Unity Point Hospital in Bettendorf, due to complications of Covid-19.
Jerry was born in Muscatine, IA on June 28, 1940 to Thomas and Mildred (Johnson) Grings. He graduated from Wilton High School in 1958 and attended Iowa Wesleyan College. Jerry married Karen Fiala on July 22, 1961 in Iowa City. She preceded him in death on December 13, 2015.
Jerry farmed in Cedar and Muscatine Counties his entire life. He enjoyed raising livestock and was still an active cattle feeder.
Jerry was a member of the United Methodist Church in Wilton, Cedar County Pork Producers, Wilton Athletic Boosters and a former 4-H leader.
He was an avid sports fan, especially the Wilton Beavers, University of Iowa and Iowa State. He loved summer fairs, an afternoon at the sale barn, a day trip to most anywhere and was known for his iconic black flat top.
Jerry was a giving man who never met a stranger. Above all, he loved his family and enjoyed gatherings and visiting with family and friends.
Public graveside services will be held on Friday, December 4, 2020 at 2:00 P.M. at Oakdale Cemetery in Wilton. Social distancing guidelines and masks will be required.
Jerry is survived and lovingly remembered by his daughter Beth Grings (Todd Kraklio); sons: Jeff (Paula) Grings and Brett (Sue) Grings all of Wilton; grandchildren: Allison (Travis) Bockenstedt, Ryan, Garrett, Cole, Annabel and Oliver Grings; great-grandchildren; Emery, Tucker and Lincoln Bockenstedt; and his sister Donna White of Annapolis, MD.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Karen.
A memorial has been established to be shared with Jerry's favorite organizations.
Online condolence may be left at www.bentleyfuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Ericka C RN
December 7, 2020
I was saddened to hear of Jerry’s passing - I hoped and prayed he would make it through this illness. One only had to spend 10 seconds with him to understand why heaven wanted him more...he knew his family loved him and I hope you find comfort knowing he loved you all even more. Praying that God’s peace that passes all understanding fills your hearts.
Donna Carlson
December 6, 2020
To the Grings family---You have been fortunate to have 2 of the greatest people for parents. You have big shoes to fill but I have no doubt that you can do it! They were so proud of their Grandkids and now those Grandkids have to carry on ---every ball game, every show, etc---know that they are with you! Make them proud! They were both happy people and did their best to share this with family and friends! Always a smile for sure!
Kenneth Muller
December 4, 2020
I was saddened with the news of Jerry's passing. I enjoyed working with Jerry and the Pork Producers Board, 4-H activities, and the ISU Extension Office. He was full of ideas and was willing to work with others to make things happen. He even talked the Pork Board into a trip to the horse races, in Moline, to see his special horse race.
Ken Muller, Cedar County Extension Director.
Troy Andersen
December 4, 2020
Brett, Sue, Jeff, Paula, Beth, and Family,
My heart goes out to you all. I have always thought the world of your wonderful family and wonderful parents. Jerry and Karen were always so positive, kind, and generous, and I have always looked up your mom and dad as role models and true community leaders. It was a privilege to get to spend so much time with you all throughout the years, and I have so many positive, memorable life experiences because of quality time that I got to spend with the Grings family. So many ball games, birthday parties, and other school events. Your dad’s signature smile is unforgettable, and I enjoyed every conversation that I had with him about sports and life. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers, and I will remember your parents always. My mom, Shirli, also sends her thoughts, prayers, and deepest sympathy.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Troy Andersen & Family
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Gene & Mary Doran
December 3, 2020
We met Jerry thru 4 H, and West Liberty Fair, always talking to him. Karen was our son's 1st grade teacher. Our prayer's are with Jerry family, great man.
Craig & Sandy Scott
December 2, 2020
We want to express our sympathy and let you know that our thoughts are with you.
Lisa Burmeister
December 1, 2020
Deepest sympathy for your loss. Jerry was a friend to everyone who had the pleasure to meet him. I am glad that I was given that chance and got to spend some time with him. He will be missed by so many. Such a kind hearted man.
Rick Steffens
December 1, 2020
So sorry to hear of Jerry's passing. He was an all around good guy and will be missed.
Tom and Teri Moeller
December 1, 2020
Our sincere sympathies to the Grings family. Always enjoyed seeing Jerry at sporting events with a smile and saying HI. The whole community will miss him.
Amy Garvin-Noble
November 30, 2020
With heartfelt sympathy for your families loss! Jerry was always very kind and always sporting a smile! I had a great visit with Jerry at the Wilton Alumni Association Annual Banquet few years ago; so pleased to have had that opportunity! Hope your memories bring you comfort!
william coram
November 30, 2020
Jerry was always a pleasure to see, always friendly, always smiling. Always looked forward to seeing him at the family get togethers. I will miss him. Love to all.
Barb & Jerry Blomme
November 30, 2020
We are honored to call Jerry our friend for years . He loved to talk cattle , farming and family. He would bring me the best sweet corn every year. He will be missed. Our prayers to the family.
Mike Dierdorff
November 30, 2020
So sorry for your loss. I remember Jerry driving past our house with his tractor and his feeder hooked to the back and at many Wilton athletic events supporting the Beavers. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Kinch Doniyhan
November 30, 2020
So sorry to hear. Truly enjoyed spending time with Jerry, he was a great guy who created a great family! Our prayers are with the Grings’.
Rosemary Stanley
November 29, 2020
He will be greatly missed, but is now with his heavenly family. Sorry for his loss to his family and all the friends here. Stay strong!!
Tom & Connie Zeleny
November 29, 2020
We are so saddened to hear of Jerry's passing. Tom so enjoyed visiting Jerry on the farm and hearing about his farming operations. We're sure he and Karen are enjoying a much deserved reunion. God's blessings and peace fill you and uphold you all as you work through this time of sorrow.
Karl & Waynette Rocycki
November 29, 2020
Our heartfelt condolences are with all of the family. Our thoughts & prayers are with you and may the Lord comfort you at this time.
Amber Jasperson
November 29, 2020
I'm sorry for your loss. Jerry was a great man.
Jeff and cindy Dykstra
November 29, 2020
We are so sorry for the families' loss.
Tracy Grunder
November 29, 2020
Jerry always had a smile and he was always ringside at the fairs. I'll miss seeing him and his bag of kettlecorn at the MVF. Jerry helped me bring my first horse home and he thought I'd got a good one. I think he liked horses has well as pigs. I appreciated his wisdom and approval. Rest in peace my friend.
Shirley Gunsolley
November 29, 2020
I am just shocked by this at a loss for words. I never remember seeing Jerry without a smile on his face. My most heartfelt sympathy to you all. Take those special memories you have of Jerry and share them often with others. Special thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Shirley Gunsolley
November 29, 2020
I am at a loss for words right now. I never saw Jerry without a smile on his face. Please know that my most heartfelt sympathy is with you all. Take the memories you have of Jerry and share them often with others. Loving thoughts and prayers are with you all.
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