Jerry Groenewold

Jerry Fredrick Groenewold of Spencer, IA passed away on January 14th, 2026, surrounded by loving family.

Jerry was born on February 22nd, 1946, to George and Helen (Blass) Groenewold in Spencer, IA.

Jerry spent his childhood on a farm near Everly, IA and participated in various activities including serving as county 4-H president and raising a grand champion hog for the Clay County Fair.

Upon graduation from Everly High School he attended Iowa Lakes Community College, earning an associate degree in business.

Jerry met Sherry Scoles on a blind date in March of 1967, and they started dating later that year. After Sherry graduated from Mankato State, they wed on May 16th, 1971, and spent almost every day together since. Following their wedding they lived briefly in Spencer before moving to Sherry’s family farm.

Jerry and Sherry were overjoyed when they welcomed two sons, Michael and Matthew, into the world. Jerry was so proud of both sons and their accomplishments and enjoyed spending time with his boys and their wives.

Jerry worked at Cornbelt Power for six years before starting to farm full-time in 1972, which he continued until his retirement in 2016. During his time farming he also spent many years doing tax preparation at Jacobson Income Tax, both in Spencer and Storm Lake, did self-employed electrical work, and measured grain bins for FSA.

Jerry was involved in numerous church and civic activities such as Chairman of the First Christian Church Elders, Chairman of Stewardship, and Chairman of Worship. He served as Lake Township Clerk, was on the E911 Board, and served two terms on the Rural Water Board. Jerry was involved in the Clay County Fair Agriculture Department for 33 years, served on the Clay County Fair Board for 27 years, and started the small animal division at the fair with Marilyn White.

Remaining to cherish Jerry’s memory are his loving wife Sherry, sons Michael (Emilie) of Chanhassen, MN and Matthew (Hanna) of Spencer, IA and their families. He is also survived by his brother David (Betty), sister Sylvia, their families, and many other relatives and friends.

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and brother Douglas.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, January 24th, at Warner Funeral Home in Spencer, IA. There will be a private family burial preceding the memorial.

In lieu of flowers, please send any memorials to Abben Cancer Spencer, Iowa Public Television, or People for Pets.

The service will be livestreamed. To view the service please click on the link below:

https://player.memoryshare.com/video/jerry-groenewold-spencer-ia