Gerald "Jerry" Boen

Gerald "Jerry" Boen, 78, of Karlstad, MN, passed away on Thursday, November 6, 2025.

Jerry was born on December 4, 1946, to Edward and Grace Boen. He spent the early years of his childhood living in the country in Strandquist, MN, before his family moved to Karlstad. Jerry graduated from Karlstad High School in 1964. He then went on to Area Vocational Technical Institute (AVTI) in Thief River Falls to become an auto body tech.

After finishing his schooling, Jerry briefly lived in Montevideo, MN, before returning to Karlstad. Over the years, he worked as an auto body tech, as well as working at Motor Coach Industries (MCI) for around 24 years. But Jerry's main professional endeavor was his dog kenneling business, Boen Paw Palace. People from all over the county (and outside of it) would bring their pets to Jerry, knowing that he would take such good care of them. This business was born of Jerry's deep love for animals. At the end of his life, he had two cats, two dogs, two horses, and even a goat.

On December 31, 1967, Jerry married Patricia Fossell in Hegland Lutheran Church outside of Karlstad. They built a house in town, where they lived for a few years before moving to their forever home out in the country. The two of them built a family with their two sons, Shannon and Chad, along with their adopted daughter, Jennifer. Over the years, Jerry and Patsy also opened their loving home to over 50 foster children. Jerry's devotion to his wife was unwavering throughout their years together. Patsy sadly passed away on December 31, 2023, the day of their 56th wedding anniversary. Her passing left an immeasurable void in Jerry's life, one he carried with quiet strength each day.

Jerry had a kind heart, which he shared with many souls over the years, whether they were children in need of a home or an animal in need of some shelter. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Jerry is survived by his children, Shannon (Darla) Boen, Chad (Sue) Boen, and Jennifer Boen; his grandchildren, Ashley (Nick) Beito, Blake (Emily) Boen, Olivia, Drew, Greta, and Carson Boen; his great grandchildren, Brevyn and Navy Beito and Elowen and Trig Boen; and his brother, Chester. He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia; his parents, Edward and Grace; and his siblings, Phillip, Evelyn, Joyce, Lila, and Melford.

A funeral service for Jerry will be held on Thursday, November 13 at 11:00 a.m. at First Lutheran Church in Karlstad. Visitation will be held at the church for an hour before the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to your local animal shelter in honor of Jerry's memory.

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