PIERRE, SD – Gerald “Jerry” E. Vrooman, 96, of Pierre, passed away Sunday, June 2, 2024. Funeral Services will take place at 10:00am, Saturday, June 8, 2024 at the First Congregational United Church of Christ with interment following at Riverside Cemetery. Visitation will be held the evening prior, 5:00-7:00pm, Friday, June 7, 2024 concluding with a Prayer Service at 7:00pm.

Gerald Elmore Vrooman was born December 4, 1927, at home, eight miles southwest of Eagle Butte, SD, Jerry was the cherished son of Charles and Myrtle (Snyder) Vrooman. His early years were spent on the family homestead, where he developed a deep connection with the land and a strong work ethic that would define his life.

Jerry’s formative years were marked by a simple, rural upbringing. He attended a country school through the eighth grade, just a half-mile from his home, before continuing his education in town. After high school, he dedicated himself to working on the homestead alongside his mother. His industrious nature led him to eventually purchase his own land, along with the family farm and ranch.

On July 14, 1954, Jerry’s life was enriched by his marriage to Lillian Zimmerman. Together, they welcomed four children into the world: Charles, Janice, Diane, and Lois. Jerry’s passion for agriculture was evident in his commitment to soil conservation and his pursuit of excellence in cattle ranching. He was a man who believed in leaving the land better than he found it, and his efforts were reflected in the thriving farm and the quality of his herd.

Jerry’s contributions extended beyond his own fields. He was a pillar of the community, volunteering his time and expertise in various capacities. He served on the rural school board, the medical community board in Eagle Butte, and was a dedicated member of the South Dakota Stock Growers and the local Co-op board. His faith was a guiding force in his life, and he actively participated in church committees, embodying the values of a faith-filled and loving individual.

In 1989, Jerry and Lillian moved to Pierre, where they entered a well-deserved semi-retirement. Jerry found joy in working at the local UBC, where he relished the opportunity to meet new friends and engage with the community. Retirement also afforded him the leisure to indulge in his love for golf, and he proudly won the Duffers League title three times.

Following Lillian’s passing in 2008, Jerry continued to live independently until 2015 when he transitioned to Assisted Living at Edgewood. There, he embraced a new chapter of life, forming close bonds with fellow residents and staff. He found pleasure in daily card games, exercise, and the camaraderie of his extended family at Edgewood, who provided him with loving care, especially in his final days.

Jerry is lovingly remembered by his children: Charles Vrooman of Pierre, SD; Janice (Shane) Reede of Ft Pierre, SD; Diane (Jon) Gruhot of Villard, MN; and Lois Brooks of Sioux Falls, SD. His legacy also lives on through his seven grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren, who will miss his guidance and warmth. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Lillian, and all of his siblings.

Jerry’s life was a testament to the virtues of hard work, community service, and unwavering faith. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him, and his impact on the land and the people of South Dakota will be felt for generations to come.

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