Gerald "Jerry" Foster

Gerald “Jerry” V. Foster, 86, entered into his eternal rest on October 1, 2022.

Jerry was born on June 16, 1936, the son of Ernest James and Thelma Foster. He graduated from Eldora High School in 1954. On September 12, 1954, Jerry married Pat Crow before serving with the US Naval Forces during the Korean Conflict. When he returned from his tour of duty, Jerry enrolled at the State Teachers College (UNI) and received his undergraduate degree in education. He began his career at Roosevelt High School in Des Moines teaching Drivers Education and coaching basketball and swimming. After five years, he took a position with the West Des Moines Schools where he also taught Drivers Education and coached basketball and baseball. While teaching, Jerry earned a Master’s Degree in Education Administration from Drake University. In 1972, he left teaching to work with the Equitable Life Insurance Company of New York where he built a very successful business providing retirement advice to teachers and state employees. He retired in 1998.

Jerry served his community in many ways including the West Des Moines Parks and Recreation Board, coaching and serving as a board member for Little League, Cub Scouts and Indian Guides leader, FCA Board, Wildwood Hills Ranch Board, and a volunteer at Wildwood Hills Ranch Summer Camps. He was an active member of the Waukee American Legion where he served as the Post Commander for many years and served as an Elder at Christ’s Church for nearly 45 years. Jerry was also a volunteer coach at Des Moines Christian School, helping with girls’ softball and basketball and boys’ baseball and basketball. He was affectionately called “Grandpa” by all the students he helped coach.

Being an avid Iowa State fan, Jerry could tell you anything about the recent recruiting news and young players on the rise. Everyone knew Jerry as an eternal optimist. There was always “next year” for the Cyclones! Jerry was also a lifelong Dodger fan and he and Pat attended Dodger spring training games in Arizona for many years. His love for his grandchildren was evident as he rarely missed their sporting or school activities.

Jerry is survived by his four children, Jerry (Nancy), Randy (Deb), Scott (Jenny), and Vicki (Max); his 13 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren (with two on the way) – all of which he was extremely proud of; and his sister-in-law, Carol Crow.

Jerry was preceded in death by his wife Pat of nearly 60 years; his parents; his sister, Lorainne Jennings; brother, James; and brother-in-law, Jerry Crow.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 27, 2022 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines and the memorial service on Friday, October 28 at 11:00 a.m. at Christ’s Church at Fox Creek, 33365 335th St. in Waukee.

In honor of Jerry, please wear ISU colors to the services.

Memorial contributions can be made to Wildwood Hills Ranch or Christ’s Church.

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