Gerald “Jerry” deBlonk, 80, of Brookings and formerly of Volga, passed away on Sunday, June 26, 2022, at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls.
Memorial services will be Friday, July 8, at Eidsness Funeral Home in Brookings, beginning at 5 p.m. A time of visitation and fellowship will precede the service from 3 until 5 p.m. Interment with military funeral honors will take place on Saturday, July 9, at 10 a.m. at Greenwood Cemetery in Brookings. Eidsness Funeral Home is assisting the deBlonk family with arrangements.
Gerald Russell deBlonk was born Dec. 30, 1941, in Pierre, SD, and was placed shortly after into the loving arms of his parents Gerard and Marjorie deBlonk.
Jerry always said he was the most fortunate person to have three things in life he dearly loved-his family, service in the Army for 23 years, and especially important, teaching high school in Sioux Valley in Volga, SD. He loved working with youth in all aspects, including critical thinking and making it fun to learn. He coached soccer for many years in Virginia, Italy, and Brookings, SD. Jerry was always ready to assist anyone who needed help. He was fortunate enough to find his biological family and spend some time with them. His love of history was shared with everyone and he loved to visit.
Jerry was a huge SDSU supporter, as well as a member of the VFW and the American Legion. He was a past member of the Volga Lions Club.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Nancy of Brookings; his sons and daughter-in-law, Jay and Jessica of Volga; Tom of Las Vegas; and Russell of Volga; his three grandchildren: Jackson, Jacob, and Joanna of Volga were the light in his life, and he always lit up when he talked to them.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Carol Ann; and various aunts and uncles. He will be sorely missed.
