Ronald Lee Gerry

Ronald Lee Gerry, 84, of Sundance, Wyoming, passed away Wednesday, February 15, 2023.

Ronald was born January 18, 1939 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to Woodrow and Edna (Pathael) Gerry. He grew up on the family farm in Wentworth, South Dakota and graduated from Chester High School in 1957.

On November 15, 1958 in St. Paul, Minnesota, Ron married the love of his life, Catherine Mehleis of Glenwood City, Wisconsin. They made their home in numerous locations including; Minneapolis, Rush City and Cambridge, Minnesota, Buffalo, New York, Cavour, South Dakota and Sidney, Montana, ultimately retiring to Sundance.

Ron and Cathy had four children, Helen, Steven, Brenda and Julie.

Ron was a quiet, loving, hardworking man. In 1958, he started working for NAPA Auto Parts as a traveling salesman.

Eventually he worked up to being the owner of the NAPA store in Sidney. He loved airplanes; owned a Beach Bonanza; and was a licensed pilot, then moved on to building and flying RC planes.

With family and friends, he enjoyed riding motorcycles, camping and going to air shows.

During one of his many canoe trips to the boundary waters, wearing his big yellow rain suit, he gained the nickname Big Bird. Spare time was often spent in his garden, ensuring he had produce to share with neighbors and friends.

Ron is survived by his wife, Cathy of Sundance; his children, Steven (Sherri) Gerry and Brenda (Robert) Wagner of Moorcroft, Wyoming, Helen (Roger) McIntyre of Redfield, South Dakota and Julie Watson of Butte, Montana; his siblings, Shirley (Gaylen) Backus of Wentworth, Nancy (Larry) Kaschmitter of Sioux Falls and sister-in-law Shelia Gerry of Wentworth; his grandchildren, Nicholas, Jason, Jennifer, Melissa, Adam, Mychal, Jeremy, Kaitlyn and Kylie; 13 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and three grandchildren.

Services to be held at a later date.