Gerald "Jerry" Dow

Gerald Dow, beloved husband of Rachael, passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2015. He had courageously endured cancer for the past three years. Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 30th at the Associated Church in Hawarden, Iowa with Rev. Barb Joy officiating. Visitation will be after 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, with the family present from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Porter Funeral Home in Hawarden, Iowa. Visitation in Alma, Nebraska will be on Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with the family present from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Bauer-Torrey & Mach Funeral Home in Alma. Graveside service with Military Rites will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday at the Alma Cemetery in Alma, Nebraska. Condolences may be sent to www.porterfuneralhomes.com.

Jerry was born to Glen and Lois (Mathes) Dow on September 8, 1926 in Alma, Nebraska. His early life was spent on the family farm and dairy and he graduated from Alma High School. He enlisted in the United States Navy and served from 1944 to 1946. On April 10, 1949, he was fortunate in marrying Rachael Rodine.

After graduating from Kearney State College, he attended mortuary school in Los Angeles, graduating valedictorian in 1952. He had a long career caring for others, ending with the sale of the Dow Funeral Home in Hawarden in 1989.

Jerry enjoyed many years wintering in Arizona with his wife and many friends and relatives. Golfing, fishing, and playing cards were a lifetime passion. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, the American Legion and many Hawarden community organizations.

Jerry and Rachael are the parents of Ronald, Kenneth and Mary Lynn (Jim). Grandchildren are Brian (Lindsay), Lauren, Kevin, Heather, and Hannah. Gabriel is his one great-grandchild. He is loved by his sister, Elma Jean, nieces, nephews, in-laws, and so many friends.

Jerry was preceded in death by his son, Ron; parents; two brothers, Elden and Duane; and Vivian and Harlan Lewis (special in-laws).

Visitation

5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. ,Wednesday, July 29, 2015
Porter Funeral Home ~ Hawarden
712 10th Street Hawarden, Iowa 51023

Funeral Service

11:00 a.m. ,Thursday, July 30, 2015
Associated Church
719 10th Street Hawarden, Iowa 51023