Gerald Gilbert Graden
June 24, 1938 – December 14, 2021
Jerry was the first born son to Gilbert and Geneva Louise Davis Graden in a rented farmhouse West of Nokomis. He attended Nokomis High School where he was known for his sharp mind, quick wit, and sense of humor. Jerry played guard on the football team and was all-conference as a sophomore weighing only 140lbs. After graduation, at the age of 17, Jerry joined the U.S. Army and became a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division. To this day, Chuck says of his big brother: “He was one tough customer!”. Jerry loved baseball and the St. Louis Cardinals were his team. Even this year he asked how his team was doing. Jerry’s photographic memory awed all who talked baseball with him, as he easily quoted statistics and World Series’ teams, winners, and scores as far back as the “30’s”.
Jerry never married or had children, but he had plenty of family. He loved spending time with his family. He adored his nieces and nephews and even his step-niece and nephews. He really enjoyed when they were around and would ask them questions about their lives and then listen to their answers. He also loved to tease them. As they grew older, Uncle Jerry would ask about each one of them.
We as a family, are better because of Jerry. He kept things simple and has helped us remember that family is more important than things. He has helped us see that caring for those who cannot care for themselves is a privilege, not a burden. It is our honor to celebrate Uncle Jerry. He was beloved.
Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, and this year by two brothers, David in May and Dennis, in August.
He is survived by a brother, Charles (wife Marinel) Graden of Nokomis; sister-in-law Janet Graden, of Nokomis; sister-in-law Irene Graden of Hillsboro; numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces/nephews and other extended family.
Gerald Gilbert Graden, 83, died at 7:11 A.M. on Tuesday, December 14, 2021 in Litchfield. Visitation will be held from 12:00 Noon until time of service on Sunday, December 19, 2021 at Stiehl Dawson Funeral Home in Nokomis. Funeral services will begin at 1:00 P.M. with Pastor Ryan Follis officiating. Burial will be at the Nokomis Cemetery with full Military Honors. Due to the increased Covid outbreak, masks will be required. Any memorials may be made to Aperion Care of Litchfield.
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