Jeffery Dean Opheim

Jeffery Dean Opheim, 59, of Plover, IA, passed away at UnityPoint Health - St. Luke's Hospital in Cedar Rapids, IA surrounded by his family. Per the families wishes cremation will take place and a celebration of life will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be sent to www.caldwellparrish.com

Jeff was born on November 17, 1965, in Emmetsburg, IA to Alfred and Joan (Halstead) Opheim. Jeff’s journey was marked by resilience and dedication. He proudly achieved his GED, a milestone he cherished deeply. His career as a truck driver for Jergens Repair in Havelock, IA, brought not just a means of living, but also a close friendship with his boss, Mike Jergens, who quickly became one of his best friends.

A true jokester at heart, Jeff had a unique talent for bringing smiles to those around him. His laughter was infectious, often finding joy while riding his motorcycle, fishing, camping, and smoking food. He created warm memories that will forever be treasured by his loved ones.

On February 14, 2020, Jeff married his cherished wife, Rebecca Lauri, who resides in Plover.

Jeff is survived by his wife Becky Opheim, two daughters, Jenny (Ryan Holmes) and Jessica (Jarod Reitz) Fisherkrug, and his five stepchildren: Robert (Anna) Johnson of Michigan, Rigo (Megan) Johnson of Des Moines, IA, Jonathan (Megan Hammen) Johnson of Adel, IA, Katelynn (Trev) Biery of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Dustin (Kelsey) Souza of Cedar Rapids, IA. His legacy is further carried on by his 17 grandchildren: Chase (Morgan Fraker) Opheim, Kailen (Brianna Cloudas) Fisher-Krug, Braxton Holmes, RJ Holmes, Ayden Reitz, Chandler Reitz, Aubrey Reitz, Alexis Reitz, Cade Reitz, Aailiyah Reitz, Carleigh Reitz, Jace Reitz, Lincoln Johnson, Colter Biery, Briar Biery, Colby Souza, and Micah Jo Souza, with two grandbabies on the way that he was eagerly anticipating.

He is also survived by his mother, Joan Opheim of Texas, his sister, Michele Opheim of Texas, and his brother, Doug (Laurie) Opheim of Minnesota. Each person he loved held a special place in his heart.

Jeff was preceded in death by his first wife, Shari Lynn Opheim, his father, Alfred Opheim, and his grandson, Creighton, three cousins, Travis Snavely, Justin Snavely, and Dalton Alexander. He has now joined them in eternal peace.

As we reflect on Jeff’s life, we celebrate not only the joy he brought us all but the legacy of laughter and love that he leaves behind. Even in his passing, he remains a source of inspiration and warmth, reminding us to cherish each moment and to embrace life with humor and kindness.