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Illies, Jerome, age 65, passed away unexpectedly on Jan. 6th from a tired heart. Born April 5, 1952 to Ervin & Bernice (Lindenfelser) Illies, he attended DeLaSalle High School (70’) and after graduation enlisted in the United States Navy. It wasn’t long before a beautiful brown eyed brunette stole his heart. Proclaiming on their first date that he was going to marry her, he stayed true to his word, and on Sept. 28, 1974, married his soulmate Therese (Wallerius) Illies. Forty years together gave them three children-Jason (Jody) Illies, Patrick (Gina) Illies, and Sara (Tony) Klemme. We find comfort knowing they are together again.

Jerry ran the Reggie Award winning construction company, JNI Homes, in Minneapolis before moving to Crosslake and opening JNI Painting & Pre-finishing.

Strong willed and charismatic, he brought a larger than life zest to all he did. Whether waterskiing, boating, or driving with the top down, Jerry went big! A born entertainer, he was a generous host and amazing cook, but was happiest when he was fishing. He will be remembered for his unfiltered honesty, sarcastic sense of humor, and snazzy sock collection.

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, wife Therese, and brother Michael Illies. He is survived by his children, 7 grandchildren, sweetheart Katherine Laurie, and siblings-Jim (Mary Lee) Illies, Lois (Brad) Peterson, Mary Lou (Gerry) Hebert, and Carol (Chuck) Blanski. A celebration of life will be held Sat. Jan 13th at St. Joseph the Worker Church in Maple Grove, visitation 10am, Mass 11am. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you go fishing, enjoy a Kettle One and seven, or guiltlessly watch an episode of The Bachelor. Donations can also be made in his honor to Mayo Clinic-Team Therese Lymphoma Research c/o Sara Klemme, 710 Eddington Drive, Sun Prairie, WI 53590.