Gerald Wayne "Jerry" Mathison

Gerald "Jerry" Wayne Mathison, age 81, of Astoria, SD passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 28, 2026, surrounded by his children at his childhood home in Hendricks, MN. Funeral service will be held on Monday, April 6th at Faith Lutheran Church in Hendricks, MN. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be at the Hendricks City Cemetery.

Jerry was born on September 14, 1944 in Hendricks, Minnesota to Adolph and Bernice (Johnson) Mathison, where he was raised and spent his life. From a young age he developed a love of farming, working alongside his uncle Teddy, a passion that stayed with him thought his life. After attending Hendricks High School, Jerry began working at the Farmers Co-op Creamery in Hendricks, picking Grade A milk. He later worked as an independent truck driver for Olin Mills Corporation, hauling flax straw for 20 years. He went on to farm for Jeff Moen for seven years before beginning a long and dedicated career in 2001 with Kremer Farms. Jerry was a valued and respected employee who took great pride in his work. He rode his tractor for the very last time during the harvest and fall tillage season of 2025.

In 1964, Jerry met the love of his life, Janice Taylor. The two were united in marriage and made their home in Hendricks for a short time before moving to the family farm. There they built a life together raising their children and caring for many beloved family pets, embracing the simple joys of country living that they both loved so much. Jerry was a man who appreciated life's simple pleasures. He took great pride in keeping his yard well manicured, like a golf coarse and he enjoyed driving his favorite country route from the farm through Toronto, Astoria and Hendricks before returning home. One of his greatest joys was spending time with his son Kelly, sharing daily visits at the farm, where conversations were often revolved around the price of corn, Minnesota Vikings Football and of coarse the weather. Jerry had a true passion for the weather and could easily tell you the forecast along with rainfall totals across the counties. Although he wasn't a photographer by trade, he enjoyed grabbing his camera and capturing beautiful shots of sunrises, sunsets and the natural beauty around him. He also enjoyed country music, simple homecooked meals and quiet evenings watching his favorite television shows. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family.

Jerry is lovingly remembered by his children: Kelly (Tammy) Mathison, Paula Mathison and Sharla (James) Benz all of Hendricks, MN; his grandchildren: Erika Mathison (fiancée, Nate Gorter) Mikah Mathison (special friend, Riley Monnier), Nicole Mathison (special friend, Ross Quail), Kyle Mathison (fiancé, Payton Gamrak), and Chelsey (Trevor) Bellrichard and Austin Benz; his great-grandchildren: Jace, Penelope, Dahlia Bellrichard and Jaxen Brammer and Elliana Monnier; his sister-in-law, Patty Sik as well as several nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends and co-workers who all held a special place in Jerry's heart.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Janice; his parents, Adolph and Bernice Mathison; his in-laws, Bud and Doris Tyler; his brother-in-law, Dennis Sik; his brother, Arnold "Ozzie" and Janice Mathison.

Jerry's steady presence and quiet strength will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Blessed be his memory.