Dennis Donald Jerde

Dennis Donald Jerde, 82, of Clive, Iowa, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025, after facing long-term health challenges.

Born on September 5, 1942, to Donald J. Jerde and Catherine C. “Shorty” (Rohrer) Jerde in Clarion, Iowa, where the family resided until 1952 when they moved to Webster City, Iowa. Once in Webster City, Dennis cultivated a lifelong love for sports, fishing, and learning. A standout athlete at Webster City High School, he lettered in four varsity sports and earned all-state honors, as a running back his senior year of 1959. Upon graduation he ultimately chose to attend the University of New Mexico, on a full-ride scholarship, after considering offers from numerous other universities, including the University of Iowa, Notre Dame, and several other Big 10 schools.

Exemplifying his dedication to family, Dennis gave up his scholarship and promising college football career at New Mexico to return to Webster City in 1961 due to the death of his father. Once back in Webster City, he continued his undergraduate education at Webster City Junior College and then at the University of Iowa, where he graduated in 1964, with a degree in psychology. Early his senior year he married Sandra (Lyon) and together they raised two sons, Trent and Bob.

Upon completion of his Bachelor’s degree, Dennis entered the University of Iowa Law School, where he graduated in 1967. Upon graduation he, accepted a position with the Dewey Ballentine Law Firm, in New York City and remained there until 1970, when he moved to Des Moines and joined the prestigious Thoma Law Firm (later named the Davis, Brown Law Firm). Known for his principled, thoughtful, and zealous representation of his clients, he remained with that firm until his retirement in 2004.

It was while working at the Davis firm Dennis and his first wife divorced and he eventually met and married the love of his life Evelyn (Blodgett). Their relationship blossomed into a lasting and loving partnership covering more than 37 years. After they married, Dennis gained not only a devoted companion with whom he would share the rest of his life, but also a cherished extended family, including her sons, Karlos Kirby and James Kirby.

Dennis always had an inquisitive, fertile mind and when his health permitted, actively engaged in outdoor activities – especially fishing, for which he had a special passion – as well as golf, and skiing. Although age and physical wear and tear eventually eroded his ability to continue such physical activities with his customary frequency and vigor, he continued to exhibit his keen analytical ability and keep abreast of all developments needed to maintain a less physically active, but intellectually satisfying lifestyle. Arguably those that aroused the most passion centered around his beloved Iowa Hawkeye football teams. GO HAWKS!

Dennis is survived by his beloved wife, Evelyn Marie Jerde; his sons, Trent and Bob; his stepsons, Karlos (Lisa) and James (Royalee); his brothers, Michael (Roxanne) and Thomas (Marcia); and his nephew, Randy (Sandra). He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Catherine.

In accordance with his wishes, no service will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to AHeinz57 Pet Rescue and Transport, a Des Moines-based animal rescue organization.

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