Gerald Ray "Jerry" Wasson (2023)

FEAR, LUDWIG, LYTLE, MCKINZIE, MENSING, PHILLIPS, SUTTON, WASSON

Posted By: Pat Hochstetler
Date: 8/13/2024 at 07:46:21

Fielding Funeral Home
Chariton, Iowa

In Loving Memory of Jerry "Killer" Wasson
September 10, 1939 – December 17, 2023

Gerald Ray Wasson passed away on December 17, 2023, at the age of 84. Born at home in rural Van Meter, Iowa, on September 10th, 1939, he was the beloved son of Ross Gerald Wasson and Lyla Mae (Lytle) Wasson.

Jerry graduated from Van Meter High School in 1957 and continued his education at Iowa State University and the City College of Long Beach. On September 9th, 1961, he married the love of his life, Sharon McKinzie, in Winterset, Iowa. From this union, two children were born: Daniel Ray and Susan Kay. Later in life, Jerry found companionship with Roberta Phillips.

Jerry started his adult life as a car salesman in Winterset and later in Fort Dodge. Jerry’s outgoing charismatic personality led him to be a very good car salesman. In the early '70s, he made a significant life change, moving the family to Chariton, where he began farming with his father and engaged in trucking on the side.

Known by his friends as "Killer," Jerry was a social and likable individual, always armed with the "one-liner" of the day. He had a passion for classic cars, hunting, big band era music, dancing, playing the trumpet, and supporting his kids in 4-H. Jerry possessed the unique gift of replaying a song on his trumpet after hearing it once.

Jerry's love for 4-H and the Iowa State Fair was unwavering throughout his entire life. As a young man, he exhibited sheep at the County, State, and Regional levels. Watching his children and grandchildren succeed in the show ring brought him immense joy, and he was known for his post-show rituals, encouraging his children with phrases like "We ate them like a chicken" and "No one talks about second."

His dedication to the Iowa State Fair extended beyond the show ring, as Jerry thoroughly enjoyed every aspect, from the campgrounds to the sheep barn, pavilion, and beer tents. Socializing and observing fair activities were the highlights of his year.

Jerry's "no filter" personality was legendary. To sit and share a beer with "Killer" meant engaging in candid conversations, and if you agreed with him, you were a friend for life. If not, you might receive a "four-finger salute" and an "up yours."

Jerry leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter. He is survived by his two children, Daniel Ray (Annie) Wasson and Susan Kay (Bill) Ludwig, seven grandchildren, Kayla (Matt) Mensing, Ross (Madisyn) Wasson, Hannah Sutton, Trevor Sutton, Lindsay Sutton, Michael Ludwig, and Jacob Ludwig, and four great-grandchildren, Rhett and Royal Mensing, and Kroy and Lyla Wasson. He is also survived by his sister, Ellen Mae (Glenn) Fear, along with nieces and nephews.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Ross and Lyla Wasson. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. May he rest in eternal peace.

Private family service will be held at 10:30 AM at the Winterset Cemetery on Thursday, December 21st. Following the service, please join us for a celebration of life at The Office in Chariton, IA at 4:00 PM. The location is 109 N Main, Chariton, IA 50049. Memorials may be directed to the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation.

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