Gerald Smits

Gerald M “Jerry” Smits, age 92, of Wisconsin Rapids, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, October 2, 2026, at Arborview Court in Wisconsin Rapids.

Jerry was born on January 20, 1934, in the town of Sigel, the son of Joe and Alena (Jansen) Smits. Jerry served his country in the United States Army National Guard.
Jerry met Carolyn DePagter, on a blind date that was set up by a mutual friend. They dated two years before they were married on August 24, 1956, in Oostburg, WI. They were blessed with nearly 64 years of marriage and five children (Sandra, Lori, Mary, Dale and Dan).

In his early years Jerry worked for Preway and then later for Nekoosa papers for 40 years until his retirement in 1994.

Jerry had a strong faith, faith in God and his family, he was a longtime member of Christian Reformed church which later merged with Faith Reformed Church. He also served as an Elder and Deacon for Christian Reformed Church. He was also very involved in his community, he volunteered for Meals on Wheels, he drove a transport vehicle for the county, taking people to their appointments.

Jerry looked forward to family camping trips, enjoyed bicycle riding and couples bowling with Carolyn. He was an avid sports fan watching and playing sports, he enjoyed getting his family together and playing a round of baseball or football.
Jerry is survived by his daughters: Sandra (Paul) Jeltema and Mary (Eric) Ylvisaker; two sons: Dale (Kim) Smits and Dan (Gwen) Smits; son-in-law Les Robinson; 13 grandchildren: Amy (Jon) Friesema, Eric (Erin) Jeltema, Kara (Jay) Martin, Sara (Kevin) Coder, Brian (Sarah) Robinson, Luke (Amy) Ylvisaker, Tyler (Stephanie) Ylvisaker, Tanner (Emily) Ylvisaker, Jack Smits, Joe Smits, Isabella (Billy) Moritz, Abigail (Sonny) Daoheuang, and Ava Smits; 20 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Ruth Mentink, Melva Smits and Betty DePagter.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his Wife Carolyn in 2020; his daughter Lori Robinson; his brothers, Clifford Smits, Donald (Irene) Smits; sisters, Ruby (Francis) Dees, and Dorothy (Stanley) Meyer; sister-in-law Marcia (Glenn) Loomans; and by his brothers-in-law, John Mentink and Don DePagter.

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at 12:00 noon at the Herman-Taylor Funeral Home in Wisconsin Rapids. Burial will be at Christian Reformed Cemetery in town of Sigel at a later date Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon followed by a lunch at the funeral home celebration center.

The family would like the thank the staffs of River Run, Arborview Court and Heartland Hospice for all the care they gave Jerry.

Memorials may be made in Jerry’s Name to Love Inc. or to Strong Brave Hopeful Foundation. Direct links are listed below.

Herman-Taylor Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the family.