Jerry Slade

A celebration of Jerry’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 30, 2023 at the United Church of Christ in Springfield, SD. Inurnment will be in the Springfield Cemetery. Peters Funeral Home of Springfield, SD, is in charge of arrangements. Jerry Dean Slade, was born on August 10, 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 a skilled outdoorsman and had a deep love for hunting. He enjoyed time in nature, first with his loyal dog Pal, then he shared 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 Linda Lou Hoffman, that spanned over five decades. Together, they had four children: Amy, Jenny, Jackie and Chad.

Jerry showed his love by sharing 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 to those fortunate enough to witness it.

Jerry died Wednesday, September 13, 2023, in his home in rural Tyndall.

Jerry was preceded in death by parents Betty and Robert Slade.

He is survived by his wife Linda; his children: Amy and Jeff Ward, Jenny and Chad Hansen, Jackie and Paul Eichenberger, and Chad and Brooke Slade; 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; two great-grandchildren; his sister Lori (Slade); and Dan Krier.