PIETERS, Jerry Steele 1932-2017

PIETERS, SCHWINGER, SAYRE

Posted By: County Coordinator
Date: 3/12/2018 at 12:36:22

Services:
Saturday, September 2, 2017 at Westminster Presbyterian Church at 1:30 pm

Cemetery:
Private family burial will be held prior to services.

Memorials:
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF)
Biography

Jerry Steele Pieters, 85, of Cedar Falls, sformerly of Waterloo, died at his home on August 27, 2017, of natural causes, with his family at his side, surrounded by their love, prayers, and laughter as they recounted stories of his past escapades.

He was born on March 6, 1932, in Dubuque, to Steve and Cora (Schwinger) Pieters.

His family moved to Waterloo when his father, Steve, started working for the North Central Railroad. Jerry attended East High school, graduating in 1950. He maintained lifelong friendships with many of his classmates. He never met a stranger in his life.

Jerry served as a Navy medic during the Korean War from 1951 until 1955, assigned to naval duty on a ship sailing the Mediterranean. After his honorable discharge, Jerry attended and graduated from Drake University Pharmacy school in 1958 on the GI bill, while working over 40 hours a week at a local pharmacy. Jerry always credited the VA doctors for their help while he was in pharmacy school.

Behind the scenes, he was a generous and anonymous benefactor to many people in our community, especially young children.

After graduating, he worked for Tom Landgraf at Landgraf Drug Store in downtown Waterloo. In 1964, Jerry opened Broadway Pharmacy which he operated until 1984. Jerry also owned the Mowbray Company, a podiatric supply manufacturer.

He married Joan Sayre Pieters on July 2, 1962 in Omaha, Nebraska. She preceded him in death on February 6, 2003.

Jerry is survived by his daughters, Kimberly Ann (Dale) Knoshaug of Des Moines, Samantha Jo (Dana) Deines of Cedar Falls, his four grandchildren, Alexa Jo (James) Tornberg, Jared Steele (Laura) Deines, all of Iowa City, Samuel Pieter Knoshaug and Alexander Sayre Knoshaug, Des Moines, as well as his faithful caretaker since 2016, Steve Fox, and his nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Jo; a brother, Jack; and a sister, Jane.

Celebration of life service will be held at Westminster Presbyterian Church on Saturday, September 2, 2017 at 1:30. The family will be present one hour before the service.

Jerry is a Believer in Jesus Christ and lived with a zeal, generosity, and a passion for life. His sense of humor was unmatched. His loyalty and devotion to his family, work, and friends was known by all. Westminster Presbyterian church was his home since 1970. He was a member of the Elks Club since 1956, spending many hours there with his good friends. Jerry was always a provider and protector of his family, working tirelessly to take care of them. Jerry fought the good fight. He epitomized the word grit. He was an example to which we will strive to emulate.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation). The family thanks UnityPoint Health Hospice for their wonderful support and care for Jerry. They were truly the light that led the way during the darkest of times and in unfamiliar territory. We are forever grateful.

SOURCE: Locke funeral home website