Gerald A. Steele (“Jerry”) age 71 of Farmersburg Iowa passed away sat Nov. 29, 2025, at the hospital in Elkader, Iowa.

Jerry was born Sept. 24, 1954, to Irvin and Kathryn (Sivage) Steele. In 1972, Jerry enlisted in the air force, and before he left in December for boot camp, he married Sandra Carlson on Oct. 7 in Prairie du Chien.

Jerry was stationed at the Chanute Air Force base in Rantoul, Ill., for two years and then stationed at the March Air Force base in Riverside, Cal.

In 1976, after the birth of their first child Christine, Jerry and Sandy moved back to the Midwest to be closer to family.

Jerry served as a deputy sheriff of Crawford County for many years until his retirement. 

Jerry enjoyed buying and restoring Victrola record players, fishing, driving and giving rides to family and friends in his Ford model T and spending time with his grand kids.

Jerry was known for his quick wit and sense of humor.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; in-laws; brothers in-law Dennis, Tom and Steve; sister in-law Sharon; and niece Beth.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 53 years Sandy; his children Christine and Johnathon Steele; his grand kids Andrea, Josh, Liby and Asher.

His sisters Barb Rink and Judy (Dean) Ashbacher and many family and friends.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, May 2, at the Tin Shed in Eastman from 1–4 p.m.

“I can’t wait until tomorrow, I get better looking everyday.” - Jerry