Gerald J. Konz (1948-2011)

KONZ

Posted By: Padriag
Date: 12/26/2011 at 09:09:00

Gerald Joseph "Jerry" Konz

Published: Tuesday, December 13, 2011 11:19 AM CST

Gerald Joseph "Jerry" Konz, age 63, passed away on December 11, 2011, in his home, surrounded by his family.

Jerry was born March 3, 1948, to John and Irene (Ausdemore) Konz of Neola, Iowa. Growing up, he was a resident of Neola and was the eldest of 11 children. Jerry graduated from St. Albert High School in 1966. He served in the Iowa National Guard until 1971, attaining the rank of Specialist 4. He married Sandra Merkert on September 20, 1969. They raised their family on a farm outside of Minden, Iowa. Jerry was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Neola, where he was a 4th Degree in the Knights of Columbus. He was a past St. Albert school board member and received the Spirit of St. Albert Award in 1993. Jerry was a life-long farmer, but his greatest passion was living as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.

He was preceded in death by his son, Barry Gerard Konz; mother, Irene Konz; and in-laws, Elden and Marjorie Merkert.

Jerry's survivors include his loving wife of 42 years, Sandra (Merkert); his son, Matthew and wife, Erin, of Richmond Hill, Ga.; his daughter, Sheila Puyleart and husband, Todd, of Forest lake, Minn.; his daughter, Michele Crystal and husband, Bill, of Adel, Iowa; and his son, Scott and wife, Jaime, of Oakland, Iowa; and his grandchildren, Sarah, Rachel and Naomi Puyleart, Jacob and Caleb Crystal, Ava and Cauy Konz, and Baby Konz arriving in the spring; and his siblings, family and friends.

Visitation with the family, Wednesday, 5 to 8 p.m., at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Neola with a Prayer Service at 7 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial Thursday, 10:30 a.m., at the church.

Interment St. Patrick's Cemetery, Neola with military rites tendered by Neola American Legion Post #330.

A lunch will follow in the parish hall. The family will direct memorials.