Jerry Allen Wild

Jerry A. Wild, 84, of DeSoto, Iowa, passed away at home on Sunday, May 24, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Jerry was born on August 9, 1941, in Redfield, Iowa, to Oscar and Ethal (Smith) Wild. He proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1959 to 1962 and remained a lifetime member of the American Legion. On June 7, 1969, Jerry married Linda Schaefer, in Rosemount, Iowa.

Jerry worked for many years as a welder and took great pride in his profession. Following retirement, he enjoyed working part-time at Holmes Hyundai in Clive, Iowa.

Jerry was a man who could make you smile, crack a joke, or make you laugh. He loved playing pool, cribbage, and poker, and especially enjoyed spending time outdoors with his children and family. Jerry enjoyed road-trip vacations to places such as Montana, Oklahoma, Las Vegas (yes, he drove there) and Yellowstone. Some of his favorite moments were teaching his grandchildren how to ride bikes and mow the yard. Above all, Jerry enjoyed time spent with family and friends.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Linda Wild; two daughters, Christy Bailey (Jeff) and Lisa Riedl (Scot); and his grandchildren, Bryan Bailey, Jared Bailey, Zachary Bailey, Jack Davis (Karen), Judy Davis, Jim Davis (Brenda), and Bev Davis Peterson (Paul). He also leaves behind three granddogs, Allie, Bama, and Hemi.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Ethal Wild; his stepfather, Lewis Emory "Bud" Davis; his siblings, Mary Lou Walker Novak, Patricia Wild Betz, and William "Larry" Wild, Lewis Emory Jr. Davis and Michael Davis.

The family extends a special thank you to the staff and nurses of WesleyLife Hospice for their excellent care.

Visitation will be held Friday, May 29, 2026 from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home in Adel, Iowa, with funeral services beginning at 11:00 a.m. Chuck Broeker will officiate. Burial will follow at Oakland Cemetery in DeSoto.