Jerry D. Witte

Jerry Dean Witte, age 83 of State Center, passed away on Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at Southridge Specialty Care in Marshalltown.

Jerry was born May 19, 1942, the son of Everett and Doris (Elder) Witte in Marshall County, Iowa. He attended Clemons Elementary and State Center High School.

Jerry was always working with his hands since he was a kid. He did a lot of jobs on the farm from mounting tires to bailing hay - you name it he did it. His first official job was at Meeker’s Laundry in Marshalltown. He worked at Fisher Controls, now Emerson, for many years until his retirement. After retirement, he enjoyed helping farmers.

Jerry proudly served his country from 1962 to 1966 in the United States Navy. He served in the Vietnam War in a fighter squadron. He continued to be a dedicated veteran the rest of his life. He had the honor of receiving a quilt of valor within the last year and Jerry said this was his one of his proudest honors.

In May of 1971, Jerry was united in marriage with Juanita Buschbom in Missouri. They built their home in State Center where they raised their five children, Lisa, Joe, John, Kirk and Tiffany.

Jerry was always up to go junking, buying scrap cars, or finding something to fix up. He enjoyed talking on his CB radio, using the handle of torch man. Jerry really enjoyed older cars, trucks and John Deere tractors. He was a NASCAR fan and made it to numerous races. Jerry loved to go camping; His favorite place being Mount Pleasant, where he camped for nearly 54 years.

Jerry was a family man; he cherished spending time with his children, grandchildren, and his siblings. Jerry would never miss a family gathering, no matter who was hosting. Jerry’s all-time favorite dish to eat was mashed potatoes. He was proud of his family and their achievements.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Everett and Doris Witte; his brother, Ron Witte; his in-laws, Andy and Rita Buschbom; and his brother-in-law, Jim Buschbom.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 54 years, Juanita Witte; his children, Lisa (Eugene) Smith, Joe (Dawn) Witte, John (Lisa) Witte, Kirk Witte and Tiffany (Curt) Witte; grandchildren, BJ, Nikki, Kenneth (Bud) and Jonnie Tate, Trent (Cheyenne) Walker, Megan Witte, Aiden Knea, Maddox Dehner, Alanea Witte and Rebel Witte; 12 great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren; his brother, Dave (Kay) Witte; sisters, Sharron (David) Sellers and Joyce Witte. He also had a lot of friends who were considered his family.

Per Jerry’s wishes, cremation rites will take place. A graveside service will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Monday, October 20, 2025 at Rose Hill Memorial Gardens in Marshalltown. The family welcomes you to join them in food and fellowship at Mitchell Family Funeral Home following the graveside. Memorial donations may be directed to the family for later designation.

Mitchell Family Funeral Home has been entrusted to care for Jerry and his family. To leave online condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com. Ph. 641-844-1234.