Jerry Blesener

Gerald Blesener, age 77, of Northfield, passed away peacefully Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at his home surrounded by family.
Gerald Michael Blesener was born on December 4, 1946, in Northfield, Minnesota, to Arthur and Mary (Winter) Blesener. Jerry's life was marked by dedication to his loved ones and service to his hometown.
Jerry's heart belonged to Wendy Blackburn, whom he married on April 16, 1966, at St. Dominic's Catholic Church. Their union was blessed with love, resilience, and the joy of their family.
Growing up amidst the scenic charm of Northfield, Jerry was a proud graduate of Northfield High School. His sense of duty led him to serve in the US Navy as a submarine mechanic, an experience that honed his resilience and integrity. Upon returning to his roots, he established himself as a skillful mechanic, eventually rising to the respected position of service manager at Valley Auto Haus. His diligence continued as he worked at Mechanical Systems well into his retirement years. He embodied the spirit of community as a Rescue Squad Chief and a devoted volunteer with the Northfield Fire Department for 25 years.
Jerry's enjoyed "up north" fishing on his favorite lake, hunting in the fall with friends and having a vegetable garden. He loved his Minnesota Twins! Jerry had an innate ability to play cribbage, engaging in friendly competition every week up until his final days.
Friends and community members knew Jerry as an honest man whose generosity was manifested in acts of kindness. This was mirrored in his devotion to Wendy, whom he cared for tirelessly after she suffered a stroke in 2010, demonstrating the depth of his love and commitment.
Jerry's memory will be treasured as one of a selfless, capable, and generous man. His absence leaves a void in the fabric of Northfield, but his impact endures, inspiring all who knew him to carry forward his legacy of warmth, devotion, and community service.
Survivors include his children Kimberly (Randy) Adelsman of St. Paul and Jason Blesener of Minneapolis; his grandchildren Chase (Laura) Adelsman, Brett (Hannah) Adelsman, Trey Adelsman, Genevie Adelsman and Johnny Klisch; great-grandchildren Jasmine and Aidan; sisters-in-law Grace, Char, Diana (Don) Larkin, Patti (Ken) Jensen; and many loved nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife Wendy; parents; and siblings Joseph, William, Carly and Betty.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00AM on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at Emmaus Church in Northfield. Visitation will begin at 10:00AM. Following the service there will be Military Honors. Jerry and Wendy will be interred together at Calvary Cemetery in Northfield at a later date.
Arrangements are with the Bierman, Benson & Langehough Funeral Home. www.northfieldfuneral.com