Jerome Henry

Tuesday, April 9, 2024 5:32 pm

Jerome Henry, age 84, of Decorah,  died on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at Evans Memorial Home in Cresco.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, April 15, 2024, at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church in Bluffton, with Rev. Dan Knipper presiding. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of the service at the church on Monday morning. Helms Funeral Home is assisting with the arrangements. A rosary service will be said for Jerome at 9:30 a.m.

Jerome was born; William Jerome Henry on Sept. 27, 1939, at St. Joseph’s Mercy Hospital in Cresco, Iowa to James Patrick and Dorothy Genevieve (McCauley) Henry, the youngest of four boys.  He graduated from Canton High School in 1957, and later attended Iowa State University, before returning back home to the family farm.

Jerome farmed his entire life in Winneshiek County raising crops, cattle, and hogs, tending the land with his brothers until their passing, then farming on his own.  He was proud of the land that served him, and especially his strong Irish Catholic Heritage.  Jerome loved attending small town celebrations, particularly that of St. Patrick’s Day, with his gift of gab, fiery red curly hair, blue eyes, and staying true to his Irish roots, he would tell stories to anyone willing to listen, usually starting his anecdotes with, “the deal with that is……”  He had a great fondness for Jameson Irish Whiskey and usually kept a bottle on hand, ready to share with whomever wanted to partake in the revelry…..Jerome had a contagious laugh that will be missed by many.

Jerome is survived by three children, Shannon (Dale) Heitman of Bricelyn, Minn., Mark (Sue) Henry and Matthew Henry of Lake City, Minn.; seven grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.  Also surviving him are several nieces and nephews.

Jerome was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Eldon in infancy, Earl and Duane Henry.

Memorials may be directed to St. Bridget’s Catholic Church.