Gerald A. "Jerry" Thurk

1942 - 2025

Gerald "Jerry" Thurk, age 83, of St. Bonifacius, MN, passed away peacefully on December 21, 2025. Jerry lived a life full of love, laughter, and service to others.

Jerry was born and raised in St. Boni and attended St. Boniface Catholic School. He graduated from Waconia High School in 1960 where he was a proud member of the baseball, wrestling, and football teams. Jerry dutifully served his country in the United States Army before earning a business degree, which laid the foundation for a long and successful career in finance, working with Minnesota-based manufacturing companies. His work took him around the world, including memorable trips to Singapore, but his heart was always at home with family and friends.

Jerry built his house and his family in St. Bonifacius. Along with former wife Bonnie, they raised four daughters: Ann Langer (Dave), Cindy Froehling (Rick), Christine Blessing (Shawn), and Jill Kennedy (Jon). He adored his grandchildren: Kaitlin Simmet (Dave), Sarah Langer, Matt Langer, Hannah Froehling, Rachel Froehling, Payton Blessing, Madison Kennedy, and Jacob Kennedy; and great-grandchildren Patrick Simmet and John Simmet. Jerry was fortunate to find love later in life with high-school classmate Kathy Anderson, who provided so much comfort to him even in his final days. He also leaves behind his siblings, Bob, Steve, Teresa Feltmann (Al) and Barbara Smith (Mike), and countless friends who were like family to him.

He was welcomed to Heaven by his parents Agnes and Wilbur, brother Wilbur Jr. "Punky," sister-in-law Judy, nephew Paul, and his lifelong friend Don Moonen.

Known for his outgoing personality, Jerry loved being with people and helping wherever he could. He was deeply involved in his community as a volunteer fireman, a member of the Lions Club and Jaycees, and serving on the St. Boniface Church Council. His hobbies included attempts at golfing, fishing at Battle Lake, and the occasional pull tabs, but his greatest joy was spending time with those he loved.

Jerry's legacy is one of generosity, friendship, and faith. He will be remembered for his sense of humor, his love of life, and his ability to make everyone feel valued.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Summerwood of Chanhassen for their compassionate care and support.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at St. Boniface Catholic Church (4025 Main St.) in St. Bonifacius on Saturday, December 27, 2025. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Boniface Catholic Church or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Arrangements are with the Johnson Funeral Home in Waconia, 952-442-2121, www.johnsonfh.com.