Jerry Slade, 74, of Tyndall

Jerry died Wednesday, September 13, 2023 in his home in rural Tyndall. A Celebration of Jerry's Life will be 10 AM, Saturday, September 30 , 2023 at the United Church of Christ in Springfield. Inurnment will be in the Springfield Cemetery.

Jerry Dean Slade, a true cowboy that loved the land, was born on August 10th, 1949, to Betty Lee and Robert Slade. Jerry was a remarkable man whose life was a testament to his dedication and love for his family and various passions.

Jerry was not just a farmer and rancher; he was a steward of the land, nurturing it with his hands and heart.

A cowboy at heart, Jerry felt most at home in the saddle, surrounded by the beauty of the open range. He was not just a spectator; he was an accomplished steer wrestler, roper and a true lover of horses and the western life.

Jerry was also a skilled outdoorsman who had a deep love for hunting. Enjoying the peaceful time in nature, first with his loyal dog Pal then sharing his passion with his son and eventually his grandsons. He had a knack for crafting guns with his own hands, a skill that added to his connection with the great outdoors.

His commitment extended to the classroom, where he shared his knowledge and passion as a biology and Phys ED teacher, inspiring countless students.

In the world of high school and college sports, he was a true mentor, having coached wrestling and football among other sports. Instilling discipline, perseverance, and teamwork in his athletes, leaving a mark on their lives that only he could leave. Jerry's love for wrestling extended to his family, where he engaged in friendly and not so friendly wrestling matches, creating cherished memories that resulted in a  crying wife and rugburned children.

In the summer of 1969, Jerry Dean Slade embarked on a lifelong journey with his sweetheart Linda Lou Hoffman, a love story that spanned over five decades. Together, they created a loving family that includes four children: Amy, Jenny, Jackie and Chad.

Jerry bestowed his love by sharing countless moments of quality time, whether it was checking cows in the pasture with his family, enjoying picnics, gathering around campfires, sledding down snowy hills, casting lines for fishing, embarking on night rides under the starry sky, or engaging in spirited wrestling matches. He cherished these moments deeply, always ensuring that his family felt his love and presence.

Jerry was known for his sweet but ornery smile that could light up any room. His fiery spirit, combined with that infectious smile, made him a beloved figure among family and friends. When happiness engulfed him, he couldn't resist breaking into a little jig, a joyful dance that brought laughter and delight to those fortunate enough to witness it.

Jerry was preceded in death by parents Betty and Robert Slade and is survived by his loving wife Linda, his children: Amy and Jeff Ward, Jenny and Chad Hansen, Jackie and Paul Eichenberger, and Chad and Brooke Slade. Jerry is also survived by 13 Grandchildren: Cole, Beau (Kelsey), and K.C.(Natalie) Berg, Hannah Scnieder (Aiden) Emily Anderson (Tevin), Owen and Judd Hansen, Ty, Max and Luke Eichenberger, Breece, Jayce and Drake Slade.  Jerry also has two Great Grandchildren Ruger and Bear Anderson, and his beloved sister, Lori (Slade) and Dan Krier.

Jerry's legacy will continue through the lives he touched, the knowledge he shared, and the love he gave to his family. He will be remembered for his unwavering dedication, his passion for the outdoors, and the profound impact he had on all who knew him.

While Jerry may not have had the opportunity for one last earthly ride, we find comfort in the belief that he is now riding his beloved horse, Poke, and his sweet smile and joyful little jig lighting up the Heavenly plains.