Jerry J. Wiita

Jerry J. Wiita, 87, of Duluth, Minnesota, born March 7, 1935, realized his greatest Hope on October 22, 2022, when he met Jesus, his Savior, face to face. Jerry was surrounded by family singing songs of praise and reading scripture.

Jerry began his working career at the Floodwood Creamery, transferring to the Franklin Creamery in Duluth followed by 25 years at General Mills where he developed many long-lasting relationships with those in the grocery industry. His true work, however, was sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ at the St. Louis County Jail, AA, and everywhere he went.

Jerry had a passion for the outdoors and enjoyed many years in the company of friends and family at both his cabin on Whiteface Reservoir and the Floodwood hunting shack. He liked his saunas, hot coffee, and never turned down a game of cards.

He was preceded in death by his parents John & Lydia Wiita; brothers, John (Muriel) Wiita and David Wiita; and his precious granddaughter Jennelle Kay Rahja.  He is survived by his wife Peggy (Lindquist); six children, Lori Wiita (Joe McFarland), Diane (David) Schlossin, Mark (Laurie) Wiita, Brian (Melissa) Wiita, Karen (Bryan) White, and Wendy (Bill) Kaptonak; 15 grandchildren, Steve (Morgan), Jana, Emma, Dalton, Jacob, Alex, Bethany, Andy, Ethan, Maggie, Isaac, Lydia, Abbie, Gabe, and JhonRae (Brandon); three great-grandchildren, Charlie, Lucas and Sawyer; his sister-in-law, Audrey Wiita; many nieces and nephews; and special friends, Travis and Megan Johnson and Mario Schinigoi. Special thanks to Pastor Myke Main.

We greatly appreciate the staff at Benedictine Rehab, the staff at St. Luke’s 5E ICU, Drs. Elizabeth Liljeblad, and Stephen Clappier for the excellent care given to Jerry.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 26, 2022, at Christ Lutheran Church, 2415 Ensign Street, Duluth from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. The memorial service will begin at 11:00 a.m. with a luncheon afterwards. Arrangements by Dougherty Funeral Home. 600 East Second St.