Jerome Van Heukelom 07/21/2025

Jerome (Jerry) Van Heukelom, 83, passed away Monday, July 21, 2025, at United Hospital in St. Paul, after suffering a massive stroke, with his loving wife and son by his side.
Jerome was born on July 10, 1942, in Strasburg, ND to Dick and Molly (Berndt) Van Heukelom. He grew up on the family farm and attended the local country school. Later he was employed at the Pollock, SD cheese factory where he drove the milk truck, living at his sister, Kathryn Lovo’s home.
In 1961, Jerome came to Wisconsin to visit his brother in Baldwin, WI, where he met Beryl Helders. They were married on June 2, 1962, and raised two children, Duane and Melinda. He worked for Knutson Bros. in Beldenville, WI, before finding his true calling of a farm implement mechanic, which became his lifelong career.
Jerry was a very caring and selfless guy who would lend a hand to anyone who needed it. He also had a humorous side with his quick comeback remarks which continued almost to the last day. Jerry had a variety of interests and hobbies. He and Beryl took many motorcycle trips together and with friends. He loved snowmobiling and taught snowmobile safety classes for many years. He also volunteered his time grooming the trails.
Recently he took an interest in woodworking. Creating many canes and walking sticks for those that needed them, and other unique items. He also enjoyed camping, reading, putzing in the garage, etc. but his main priority was his faith and family. Raising his children, enjoying his grandchildren, and great grandchildren meant the most to him.
Jerry is survived by his wife of 63 years, Beryl; son, Duane (Bernadette); and son-in-law, Randy Zellmer. Grandchildren, Molly (Ben) Bailey of Pequot Lakes, MN, Morgan (Phil) McSorley, and Tia (Brian) Giebel both of River Falls, WI. Great grandchildren, Brooks and Beau McSorley, and Cal, Myles, Nolan, and Blaire Giebel; sister, Elizabeth Dykema (Brian), of Dickenson, ND; brothers, Leroy of New Richmond, WI, and Roger (Glori) of Bismark, ND; and sister-in-law, Dixie Helders of Baldwin, WI; and many other relatives and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Dick and Molly Van Heukelom; daughter, Melinda Zellmer, in 2013; Stepson, Kenneth Cowles, in 1967; brothers, Bernice (Jeanette), Glen (Bertha), Gerald (Ardyth), Willis (Diane); and, sisters, Katherine (Odvel) Lovo, Loretta (LaVern) Compaan, Pearl (Dennis) Miller; brothers-in-law, Louis Dykema and David Helders; and sisters-in-law, Judy Van Heukelom, Marion Lokker, and Adeline (Don) Kahler.
A Celebration of Jerry’s Life will be held on Thursday, July 31, 2025 at 4 pm at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services 805 E Division Street River Falls, WI.  Visitation will also be on Thursday from 2-4 pm at the funeral home.  Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.