Gerald J. “Jerry” Millwright, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home in rural LaMotte, Iowa, on December 31, 2024. Born in Maquoketa, Iowa, on January 25, 1941, to Harold and Marjorie (Coleman) Millwright, Jerry’s life was marked by his dedication to his family, his work, and his community.

Jerry graduated from Maquoketa High School and furthered his education by attending the University of Dubuque. On December 29, 1962, he married the love of his life, Donna Summers, in Mechanicsville, Iowa. Together, they were blessed with three daughters: Stacey, Lori, and Lisa. Jerry’s family was the pride and joy of his life, and he was a beloved patriarch who led with both strength and compassion.

For over 32 years, Jerry was a committed employee at John Deere in Dubuque, where he worked diligently and rose to the position of supervisor. Jerry’s commitment to his community was evident through his active involvement with the West Dubuque Jaycees and coaching the LaMotte Jaycees softball team. His service extended to his faith as a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in LaMotte and St. John’s Lutheran Church in St. Donatus, as well as his civic duty on the Jackson County Conservation Board.

Jerry’s interests were as varied as they were passionate. An avid woodworker, he was renowned for his masterful creation of the world-famous koozie holder and lovingly handcrafted hope chests for each of his grandchildren. His green thumb was evident in his garden. He also found joy in boating on the Mississippi River. Jerry’s adventurous spirit shone through during his Side-by-Side rides through Jackson County, including a memorable 3-hour ride just last week. Above all, Jerry cherished the time spent with his grandchildren, whether it was on his acreage or simply being present in their lives.

Jerry’s legacy is one of laughter, love, and the occasional bout of stubbornness that endeared him to many. He was the “Chief” of his family, the leader of their pack, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him. His magical reunion with his beloved granddaughter Stefani, parents Harold and Marjorie, brother Terry, and nephew-in-law Ryan brings comfort to those he left behind. Jerry’s life was a testament to the power of showing up for those you love, and his memory will continue to inspire and guide his family and friends.

Those left to honor Jerry’s memory include his devoted wife, Donna Millwright; his daughters, Stacey (Steve) Mohr of Charlotte, IA, Lori (Pete “Zip” Gebhart) Millwright Ganzer of LaMotte, IA, and Lisa (Jon) Theisen of LeClaire, IA; his five grandchildren, Amanda Wagner, Mitchell (Lauren) Ganzer, Maddison (Brandon) Kirby, Allison (John Washington) Theisen, and Brad (Bethany) Mohr; and his seven great-grandchildren, Elijah Leary, Josefine, Elizabeth, and Charlotte Ganzer, Barrett Kirby, and Ava and Aden Mohr. He also leaves behind his sisters-in-law, Deb Millwright and Carol Summers; his nieces and nephew, Emily Clark, Kayla (Mike) Goeser, Sherry (Shawn) Howell, and Chris Summers; and Stefani’s fiancé Jerod Haldin.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Marjorie Millwright; his brother, Terry Millwright; his in-laws, Markel and Gladys Summers; his brother-in-law, James Summers; his granddaughter, Stefani Ganzer; and his nephew-in-law, Ryan Clark.

At Peace Cremation Services have been provided by Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  No public services are planned at this time.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to the family.  Cards and notes of support may be mailed to Carson Celebration of Life Center Attn: Gerald J. “Jerry” Millwright Family, 318 West Pleasant Street, Maquoketa, Iowa 52060.

Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.