Gerald Tomperi

GERALD RUFUS TOMPERI March 14, 1943 – June 30, 2016       Gerald Rufus “Jerry” Tomperi,  age 73, of Menahga, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, June 30, 2016 at his home near Menahga, surrounded by his loved ones.           Jerry was born at home in Red Eye Township of Wadena County on March 14, 1943 to Rufus John and Irene (Crandall) Tomperi.  He attended Menahga High School before serving his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War from 1965-67. Upon his return, Jerry married the love of his life, Jean Maaninga, on August 26, 1967 in Menahga. This marriage was blessed with three wonderful children, Kevin, Sherri, and Shawn.  Jerry worked in construction first working for the LM T Construction Company in Menahga, and later commuting to the Twin Cities and working for the Nodland Construction Company in a career that spanned over 40 years.  Jerry was a life member of the the Guy L. McDermeit VFW Post #6206 where he had served as Post Commander and had held numerous other offices and served on the Board of Directors.  He felt strongly about honoring other veterans and proudly served on the VFW Military Honor Guard.  In addition, Jerry was a member of the Sebeka American Legion Post 0456 for 48 years of continuous service.       Being outdoors was always very important to Jerry and he enjoyed many sporting activities. His favorite, by far, was fishing, but he also loved hunting, bean bag toss, and especially horseshoes, where he was the VFW State Champion in 1996.  Jerry was always ready to play a game of cards. He was a faithful  fan of all of the Minnesota sports teams.         Jerry will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 48 years, Jean of Menahga; his children: Kevin (Tracy) Tomperi of Menahga, Sherri (Ron) Huchel, and Shawn (Mike) Stearns all of Brainerd; seven grandchildren: Brandon, Aydin, Brittany, Ronnie, Caleb, Jared, and Logan; one precious great-grandchild, Cyprien; Sister, Lila Milender of Ukiah, CA; brother in law, Harold Warmbold of Menahga and numerous nieces and nephews.       He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Leo Tomperi;  two sisters Valdean Warmbold and Virginia Tomperi; sister in law, Mabel Tomperi; and brother in law, Bob Milender.         A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 16th, 2016 at 11:00 AM. at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Menahga with Rev. John Ramsbacher officiating. Organist will be Ruth Ann Kinnunen.  The soloist will be Vicki Paurus who will sing, “The Old Rugged Cross” and “How Great Thou Art”. The congregational hymns will be: “On Eagles Wings” and “God Bless America”  His grandchildren will serve as his urn bearers. The  Guy L. McDermeit VFW Post #6202 will provide Military Honors. Interment will be made at the Jim Cook Cemetery, east of Menahga. Visitation will be Friday, July 15th, 2016 from 6-8:00 p.m. also at the church.  Arrangements were entrusted with the Cardini-Pearson Funeral Home in Menahga. To view the video tribute or leave online condolences please visit www.cardinipearson.com.