Jerry L. Koepke

Jerry Lynn Koepke, a beloved husband, family member, and friend, left this world peacefully on August 19, 2025, at the age of 74. Born on April 20, 1951, in Washington, Missouri, Jerry was raised in a loving household as the fourth of five children. His upbringing instilled in him the values of hard work, dedication, and the importance of family and faith.

Jerry married his wife, Donna Koepke, with whom he shared fifty-one remarkable years of love and partnership. Together, they built a life rich in memories and adventures. Jerry was known for his entrepreneurial spirit, having owned a printing company in downtown Grand Prairie, Texas. He later enjoyed a fulfilling career with American Airlines, where he dedicated twenty-four years of his life in service. After retiring, he continued to share his expertise by working for the Department of Motor Vehicles, where his warm demeanor made each interaction meaningful. He continued to work as an usher at the Texas Trust Credit Union Theatre until his passing.

Jerry was a member of the First Baptist Church of Grand Prairie for more than twenty years, where his faith and commitment to his community flourished. He volunteered in the church sound booth for many of those years. He was the official soundman for the Prairie Sounds, bluegrass gospel band. He was a member of the dulcimer band, Sweet Strings and sang bass in the Serendipity senior choir at FBC.

He cherished the moments spent traveling, especially to his beloved Hawaii, where he found joy and tranquility. His adventures often included cruising, where he relished the buffets, particularly delighting in chili cheese dogs at midnight. He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories with his wife, Donna; children, Angela Baggott and spouse Jeffrey Chavera, and Christopher Koepke; grandchildren, Caitlin Flynt and spouse Kyle, Sean Baggett; brother, Kerry Koepke and spouse Felicia.

He was preceded in death by his parents, the late Walter Henry Koepke and the late Wewoka Ione Thornhill Koepke; sisters, Trevia Fisher, Imogene Keen and Jannine Doty. May he rest in peace, embraced by the love of those who preceded him.

Visitation will be 4 – 7 PM, Thursday, August 28, 2025 at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan.

Graveside services will be held 10:30 AM, August 29, 2025 at Lea Cemetery in Leasburg, Missouri.

Friends may send their online condolences to Jerry's family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com

All arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan, Missouri.