Loving Husband, Dad, Papa, Brother, and Uncle passed away on March 18, 2026.
Preceded in death by parents, James Sr. & Dolores; sister, Margaret (Robert) Penzenstadler; brothers-in-law, Ron Rybicka, David (Dorothy) Seymour; sister-in-law, Donna (Lee) Groenewald.
Survived by wife of 46 years, Pat; children, John, Bridget (Brian), David (Kelly); grandchildren, Gavin, Carson, Jameson, Avery; sister, Cecilia Rybicka; brothers, Nick (Deb), James Jr. (Diane); nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
In 1962, Jerry’s parents bought land in Chisago City and started a dairy farm. Jerry worked hard and, despite a farming accident at age 16, he eventually took over the family farm, which quickly became a favorite gathering place for family and friends. He had a particularly soft heart for his grandchildren and spent much of his retirement bringing kids to the bus stop, driving back and forth to school, and always being the rock they could count on. Jerry was devoted to his family and enjoyed the tradition of hosting weekly Sunday family dinners. Above all, Jerry was loved and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A gathering to celebrate Jerry’s life will be held from 1-4 PM Saturday, March 28th at Roberts Family Funeral Home, Forest Lake. Interment, South Green Lake Cemetery.
Services
Gathering of Family & Friends: Saturday, March 28, 2026 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Roberts Family Funeral Home
555 Centennial Drive SW
Forest Lake, MN 55025
(651) 464-4422
www.robertsfamilyfh.com

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