Gerald "Jerry" Arthur Kiewatt, age 85, of Spring Valley, MN, formerly of Rochester, MN, passed away on September 17, 2024, at Spring Valley Care Center.

Born on November 16, 1938, in Saint Peter, MN, to Arthur and Dorothy (Austin) Kiewatt, Jerry lived a life full of adventure, service, and love. After graduating from Austin High School, Jerry pursued his passion for faith at Minnesota Bible College in Minneapolis. He spent a couple of years working at Mayo Clinic. Jerry then dedicated many years of his career to the United States Navy, where he served honorably for 21 years. His military journey took him around the globe, including remarkable experiences in Antarctica, Scotland, and two tours in Vietnam, two tours in Japan, along with a tour in Italy.  A true adventurer at heart, he once rode his bicycle from Chicago to Rochester, reaching as far as Winona.

Jerry was an active member of Autumn Ridge Church, and sang as part of the church choir. He was also a member of the American Legion, and the VFW. A lover of the outdoors, Jerry found joy in bird watching, gardening, and watching trains, often driving along the scenic Highway 61 in search of eagles. He was known for his passion for motorcycles and car shows, as well as for the countless cups of coffee shared with friends.

Above all, Jerry was a devoted family man who treasured every moment spent with loved ones. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, and adventure that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Jerry is survived by his sisters, Jan Hoffman and Donna De For; nieces and nephews, Keith (Deborah) Rasmussen,  Lynn (Doug) Martin, Hans (Rachel) De For, Peder (Sarah) De For, Heidi (Chad) Gilbert; great nieces and great nephews, Chad (Rebecca) Steele, Cassie (Aaron) Steele, Alex Rasmussen, Annika Bangs, Josiah De For, Annika De For, William De For, Aureila De For, Felix De For, Celeste De For, Aster Gilbert, Corinne Gilbert and great, great nephew and niece, Levi Jacob and Paisley DeYoung. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Dorothy Kiewatt.

A celebration of Jerry's life will be held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at Autumn Ridge Church, Timothy Chapel, 3611 Salem Rd. SW, Rochester, MN 55902 with Pastor Karen Foster officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until time of the service. Inurnment will be at Oakwood Cemetery in Austin, MN. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Samaritan's Purse:  Children's Heart Project  by visiting https://www.samaritanspurse.org/our-ministry/childrens-heart-project/

To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.mackenfuneralhome.com