Jerome Henry Kottke (Jerry) died on Friday, February 2, 2024 at his home.  He was 87 years old.

Jerry was born to Emil and Martha Kottke on July 20,1936 in Dunn County, WI.   He moved to Cloverdale and attended Cloverdale country school and graduated from Hinckley High School in 1954. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in October of 1954, completing basic training in California. He furthered his education in Denver, Colorado for fire control systems on jet fighters and went on to spend 18 months in the far east. He was honorably discharged with the rank of staff sergeant.

In 1957 he was married to Marilyn Pearson and they had two children. They built a home east of Hugo and worked in the area. Then he moved back to the family farm in Cloverdale in 1980. He married Helaine Kottke in 1981. Jerome semi-retired and had a hobby beef farm. Jerry belonged to the American Legion post 0388 and was a lifetime member of the NRA. He loved to fish, hunt, target shoot and reload his own ammunition. His biggest passion was doing all things with his John Deere tractors.

Jerry is preceded in death by both of his parents, Emil and Martha Kottke, his sister, Lorraine and husband, Dave O'Flanagan and his grandson, Jade Hays.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Helaine, his son, Doug (Wendy) Kottke of Cloverdale, MN, his daughter, Carrie (Howard) Hays of Harrisville, WV, as well as stepchildren, nephews, nieces and grandchildren and great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, February 17, 2024 at Zion Lutheran Church in Cloverdale with Rev. Brenda Wicklund officiating.  Visitation will be from 10-11 A.M. at the church.  Burial will be at Rosehill Cemetery.  Military Honors are being provided by the Hinckley Honor Guard.

Arrangements by Methven Funeral and Cremation Services, Tatting Chapel.