Jerry Arthur Engelke

Jerry Arthur Engelke, 74, passed away in his West Des Moines home on March 24, 2025. He was born on January 22, 1951, in Omaha, Nebraska to Bettie Dunn Engelke and George Russell Engelke. Jerry received his education at various military bases throughout the world as his father was in the Air Force.

Following school, Jerry joined the Navy and served in Vietnam. After a short break from the Navy, Jerry was recruited along with his sister Lola by their brother, Russ in Glendale, CA. At which time LA Times featured the three of them in their “A Family Affair” article.

Jerry served a total of 21 years in the Navy receiving numerous service metals, ribbons and commendations including the National Defense Service Medal, the Meritorious Unit Commendation, two Sea Service Deployment Ribbons, the Navy Expeditionary Medal, the Navy Achievement Metal, a Vietnam Service Metal (Bronze Star), a Vietnam Campaign Metal, an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea), and the Navy Overseas Service Ribbon.

Jerry was a proud member of the American Legion in Van Meter and The VFW in Beaverdale. He enjoyed fishing, cooking, online shopping, and was a fabulous Ball Room Dancer. Jerry was a great person and was always thinking of others before himself. Anything you ever needed, Jerry probably already had two of them and would gladly give one to you.

He is survived by his son, Austin Hill; honorary daughter, Danielle Timm; brother, Russ “Rusty” and wife Pat Engelke; sister, Marietta “Sug” Engelke Lorsch and husband Arnie Lorsch; his cat, Stripes; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Lola (Cookie) Bunyea; and his cat, Max.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family to assist with funeral expenses or to Jerry’s favorite charity, Tunnel to Towers Foundation at https://t2t.org/.

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