Jerold Stumpner, 86, of Balltown, Iowa passed away February 24, 2024 at his home in Minnesota after a four-year battle with cancer. No visitation or service.  Behr Funeral Home is assisting the family.

He was born on April 18, 1937 in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, son of Phillip and Josephine (Jelinek) Stumpner. He married Alice Hoelker on September 7, 1963; she preceded him in death in 1981. Jerold served in the Army and retired from John Deere Dubuque Works in 1992. Jerry loved spending time with his kids and their families and entertaining them with “Grandpa jokes” and word plays, taking them on hikes or trips, and telling them stories from his childhood. He could often be found hiking the trails of his favorite state parks, canoeing, and enjoying the outdoors. When he was not outdoors, he was a hobbyist, creating many balsa wood airplanes, rockets, and other models. Family came first to Jerry, and he was always ready to help relatives when they needed a hand, as well as his kids and grandkids on countless occasions with driving lessons, pet sitting, house repairs, and much more.

Surviving are his daughter, Dawn Stumpner of Madison, Wisconsin and his son, David (Jodi) Stumpner of North St. Paul, Minnesota, five grandchildren, Paulo, José, Manolo, Samantha & Abigail.

He was also preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Carol & Josephine (Cookie). His wish will be honored to not have a Mass or service, but rather to play “Big Rock Candy Mountain” by Burl Ives and “Headed to the Last Roundup” by Gene Autry to remember him by. Think of him the next time you take a hike or enjoy the outdoors.

When you weep for me, remember it was meant to be

Lay me down and when you leave, remember I’ll be at your sleeve.

So remember as you wipe your tears the joy I knew throughout the years,

as I lived my life with you I pray that thought will see you through.

We may not be together in the way we used to be;

We are still connected by a cord no eye can see.

So, whenever you need to find me, we’re never far apart.

If you look beyond the horizon and listen with your heart.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.behrfuneralhome.com