Gerald Bessler

Gerald “Jerry” Bessler passed away on March 4, 2018. Jerry was the younger of two sons, born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Although he grew up in town, he spent his summers on the family farms where, at an early age, he developed a love of the outdoors, fishing and hunting.

After his time in the Air Force, Jerry completed his education at South Dakota State with a degree in mechanical design engineering. He worked for many inventive companies including Honeywell and Johns Manville.

Of Jerry’s many talents, one was cooking, born with a love of meat! As a story spinner, he told countless tales and even became a published author in 2016 with the book, An Accidental Angel.

With the love of his life, Dolly, he traveled the world. Did he ever tell you about Tonga? As an active Sierra Evangelical Lutheran member, he served on various committees through the years. Jerry and Dolly’s combined families of Brian (Sheryl) Bessler, Stephanie (Richard) Creger, Jeff (Lori) Rydburg, Kathie (Mark) Bedolli; grandsons Chris and Jon Rydburg, Grayson and Garrett Bedolli; granddaughters Robyn Richardson and Tyler Ann Bessler, formed the circle of love that Jerry cherished deeply. The addition of his great-granddaughter, Alice Bedolli, popped the buttons on his shirt.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, and son Paul Rydburg.

Services will be held Tuesday, March 13, at 3 p.m. at Sierra Lutheran Church, 101 N. Lenzner.

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