Jerry N. Yoder, born Aug. 9, 1933, in Arthur, Illinois, peacefully passed away June 21, 2024, at Pleasantview Home in Kalona, Iowa. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and love for his family. He was the son of Noah A. and Fannie (Otto) Yoder. Jerry's early years were spent on the family farm in Arthur, where he developed a strong work ethic and a deep connection to his roots. He attended the Otto one-room school, graduating at the age of 13. In his youth, Jerry was baptized in the Amish Church and later transferred his membership to the Mennonite Church, reflecting his evolving faith and commitment to his community.
At the age of 19, Jerry faced the profound loss of his father to cancer, a moment that would shape his resilience and determination. In 1955, while on vacation in Florida, Jerry met a young woman Loretta Bender from Iowa who would become the love of his life. They were married in December 1956, at the Parnell Mennonite Church in Parnell, Iowa, beginning a journey that spanned nearly seven decades. The couple first settled in Arthur, before moving to Wellman in 1958. Jerry's career in transportation began with Home Gas, where he delivered propane in the Wellman and Kalona areas. He later joined Protein Blenders in Iowa City, delivering feed to dealers in Iowa and surrounding states. After a dedicated career, Jerry retired from Protein Blenders in August 1994.
Retirement did not slow Jerry down; he continued to contribute by driving part-time for Tom Yoder Trucking, delivering various goods coast to coast. In his spare time, Jerry enjoyed fishing and woodworking, creating cherished items for his family with his own hands. In 2007 Jerry and Loretta moved to Independent Living at Pleasantview, Kalona.
Jerry is survived by his wife: Loretta Yoder; his siblings: Clara (Harvey) Diener, Lonnie (Martha) Yoder; and brother-in-law: Dewey Gingerich.
He was preceded in death by his brother: Lloyd Yoder; and sister: Katie Mae Gingerich.
He leaves behind a devoted family who will miss him dearly: his daughters: Eileen (Chris) Gingrich, Karla Woodson, and Barb Yoder (daughter-in-law); his son: Scott (Rhonda) Yoder.
He was preceded in death by his son: Maynard Yoder and son-in-law: Ryan Woodson. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Nathan (Julia) Woodson, Katie Woodson, Andrew (Lydia Arce Picado) Gingrich, Bethany (Larsen Gable) Gingrich, Noah Yoder, and Hannah Yoder. Jerry was also blessed with great- grandchildren Melody and Maya Woodson, and Olivia Gingrich Arce. Jerry will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his community, and his faith. His life was a testament to the values of hard work, love, and perseverance. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A funeral service will be 10:30 a.m., Friday, June 28, 2024, at Wellman Mennonite Church in Wellman. Pastor David Heusinkveld will be officiating. Visitation will be held from 3-6 p.m., Thursday, June 27, 2024, at Yoder Powell Funeral Home in Kalona. A memorial fund has been established for Pleasantview Home in Kalona. The service will be livestreamed at www.powellfuneralhomes.com
Yoder Powell Funeral Home is caring for Jerry and his Family.
