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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 was held on Thursday, July 31, 2025 at 4 pm at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services 805 E Division Street River Falls, WI. Visitation was also on Thursday from 2-4 pm at the funeral home. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
Click here to watch the recording of Jerry’s service
14 Comments
Our condolences to Family and friends.
We will carry Jerry’s memory forever in our hearts.
I saw Jerry a couple of times recently; last month at the public library and Memorial weekend at the baseball tournament in Plum City. He was upbeat and still getting around. It was always good to visit. Praying for the family and God’s blessings.
As a neighbor, Jerry always had time to visit, wave when I drove by, and help if you needed. We’ll miss him
Jerry was a fine gentleman. Integrity comes to mind when I think of Jerry. Years ago I held stabilization for Jerry on a long ride to the cities from which he recoverd. Jerry always had a kind word to share. My deepest sympathy on your heartfelt loss.
We lost another great guy and friend jerry would stop by my shop and visit you will be missed jerry
So very sorry Beryl and family. Thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
So sorry Beryl for your loss .. what a great man he was for you !
My sincere condolences, Jerry will live fondly in our hearts and memories.
My thoughts and prayers to Beryl and family. I have so many wonderful memories of Jerry. Love to Beryl and Jerry’s memory.
Jerry and I met twice recently over the meat case at Aldi. We were both cogitating price/rewards on various cuts. It turned into 10-plus minute chats about common friends, interests, kids’/grandchildren relationships. He was such a caring, gregarious, interesting man with an unmistakable sparkle. May his memory be eternal.
Beryl and Family were are so deeply sorry for the loss of Jerry. So many wonderful memories snowmobiling in the Bighorns. He was so generous and selfless, always putting others before himself. Always with that smile and twinkle in his eye that made you wonder what he was up to. Prayers and deepest Sympathy to you all.
Beryl and family member it saddens me to hear of the passig of another great member of the VanHeukelom family. Jerome was a special cousin that I will always remember. We always had good visit when we got together. Always had time to visit, a very caring person. Jerome you will be missed by all that knew you.
My heartfelt condolences, wish you peace and comfort.
Love Rita
Beryl and family member it saddens me to hear of the passing of another great member of the VanHeukelom family. Jerome was a special cousin that I will always remember. We always had good visit when we got together. Always had time to visit, a very caring person. Jerome you will be missed by all that knew you.
My heartfelt condolences, wish you peace and comfort.
Love Rita
I was on a mission trip to Ecuador with Jerry in 2010. A working trip. And yes, there was such a a sparkle about Jerry. Such a delight to be there with him.
Highest regards to his whole family.
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