Jerry Dean Kiester

Jerry Dean Kiester, 67, was born August 30, 1951, the son of William Laverne and Betty Jean (Knag) Kiester. He grew up on a farm near Hemingford, Nebraska. He passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family Friday, March 1, 2019.

On November 20, 1971, Jerry married the love of his life, Lois Marie Brehm. He graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Speech Communication and Master’s Degree in Audiology. Jerry was a member of Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity. Upon moving to Des Moines, his first job was at the Des Moines Hearing and Speech Center. Jerry also worked with an ENT and Lutheran Hospital during part of his career, eventually purchasing Audiphone Hearing Aid Center, Inc.

Jerry was a member of The Morning Club and treasured the friendships he made there. He was extremely involved in the athletic programs and sports community, especially in the Johnston School District. Jerry served as president of the Little League, was instrumental in building the foundation for the community basketball program, a member of the booster club, part of the chain gang in football and a track starter at track meets. For over 25 years, he was the announcer at numerous high school activities including girls’ volleyball, girls and boys basketball and became known as the “Voice of the Dragons.”

He wore many hats including coach, and umpire, but his favorite job was being Dad and cheering on his daughters throughout their athletic careers.

Jerry was an avid fan of the Nebraska Cornhuskers (both football and volleyball), the Kansas City Chiefs and the Chicago Cubs and took great pride in all of “his teams.” He was also very well known for his woodworking skills, generating many amazing creations out of his shop. Above all else, Jerry treasured his time spent with his family, especially his wife, his daughters, their husbands, and in most recent years his adorable grandchildren.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Lois Kiester; his beloved daughters, Kyla (Lance) Routson, Heidi (Brian) Zaversnik and Sarah (Brett) Ehlers; grandchildren, Paige, Lucas and Abbey Routson, Blair, Alexander and Logan Zaversnik and Tucker, Tessa and Lydia Ehlers; sisters, Joyce Klemke and Geneice (Earl) Kemper; other loving relatives and many special friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his infant brother, Donald.

The family will greet friends from 5 to 7pm Thursday, March 7, 2019 at St. Paul Presbyterian Church, 6426 Merle Hay Rd in Johnston. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 am Friday, March 8, 2019 at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to St. Paul Presbyterian Church or the family to establish a Dragon Scholarship Fund for a Johnston High School student athlete recipient, in loving memory of Jerry.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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