Jerry E. Smith

Jerry Smith, age 87, of Princeton formerly of Elk River, went to be with the lord on April 21st , 2024. Jerry grew up in Osseo where he graduated high school and met the love of his life Cora. He went into the Air Force for 4+ years and served as a gunner on a B66 bomber. After the service he moved back to Osseo where he served as a police officer while finishing his college education and graduated with 2 master's degrees, one in science and one in math. He then taught in the Anoka Hennepin School District until he got his brokerage license and started his own company.

Together they raised 5 children. He served as husband, father, teacher, coach for multiple sports and was foster parent to many children. He was a staple in the community from singing in the choir, chairman of the church board, president of the Rotary Club, owner of Century 21 White Dove Realty, appraiser and many more leadership roles. But his greatest love was his family, grandchildren, and great grandchildren and was the biggest fan in the stands cheering them all on.

He loved hunting, fishing, reading, traveling, playing 500 and spending time at the cabin and his dog Millie. He was a man of few words but when he spoke, everyone listened! Jerry was preceded in death by his Father (Morris), Mother (Elaine), Stepmother (Ardis), and brother (Billy). He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years Cora, his sons Tim (Mickie), Steven (Eileen), Jon (Polly), Jeff (Lynn), and daughter Teresa (Gary/Ponch), 15 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren. Also survived by his brother Kenneth (Diane) and sister Jean (Cam).

Service to be held at United Methodist Church in Elk River with 10:00 AM visitation and service at 11:00 AM on Tuesday April 30th, 2024. Interment will be held with military honors at Orono Cemetery directly after service with luncheon at the United Methodist Church to follow.

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