Gerald "Jerry" W. Heitshusen, 81, of Scottsdale, Ariz., passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, April 16, 2022, surrounded by his wife, Nancy, and their son and daughter, Paul Heitshusen and Mary Jo Gollobit.
Born, October 9, 1940, Jerry was the elder of two sons born to the late Loyd and Mildred Heitshusen of Lyons. Jerry graduated from Lyons High School, attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, served in the U.S. Army and Reserves, and farmed with his father for several years around Lyons. On April 30, 1966, he married Nancy Paul, a union that lasted nearly 56 years. They had two children, Paul and Mary Jo.
Making their home in South Sioux City, Jerry was a livestock salesman for many years. In 1989, he and Nancy started Valentino's restaurant. After a six year run with Valentino's, they sold the business and later partnered with their son Paul to own and operate TCBY Treats in Sioux City, Iowa.
Avid Nebraska football fans, Jerry and Nancy were long time season ticket holders who attended numerous Big Red games both home and away. Two of Jerry's favorite recreational activities were playing cards (especially poker and bridge), as well as playing golf.
Splitting time between Nebraska and Arizona, they were also able to travel extensively. They became full-time residents of Scottsdale in 2013 upon arrival of their first grandchild. Jerry most enjoyed spending time and activities with his family.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and younger brother, Ed. His survivors include his wife (Nancy), son Paul (wife Starr) of Las Vegas, Nev., daughter Mary Jo Gollobit (husband Dave) and three grandchildren (Max, Libby, and Gracie Gollobit) of Phoenix, Ariz.. The family wishes to thank all who supported Jerry and their family during Jerry's illness, with special thanks going to Stoneridge Hopsice. In lieu of flowers, the family would like donations to Stoneridge Hospice, Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest or the Paradise Valley Ascension Lutheran Church.
Services are being held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 23, 2022, at Ascension Lutheran Church in Paradise Valley, Ariz.
