Gerald "Jerry" Swestka

Gerald (Jerry) J. Swestka of Cresco, IA, died on Friday, March 1st, 2024, at his home with family and Father Jacob by his side. Per Jerry’s wishes, a private family service will be held at a later date.

Jerry was born November 20th, 1942, to Louis and Louise (Sobolik) Swestka. Jerry grew up in Protivin, IA, before his parents purchased the farm south of Cresco.

Jerry helped on the family farm with his brother, Larry from a young age and farming became one of his many loves. He graduated from Rudolphinum High School in 1960, and remained lifelong friends with some of his classmates.

He married Susan Mayo in 1971. They later divorced. He always said he was blessed with two of the best things from that marriage, his children Jerrad and Kim, whom he loved dearly.  Jerry married Diana Amundson in 1991, and gained a son, Quentin Amundson. Quentin has always said, “I couldn’t have hand picked a better father myself, so good job mom.”

Jerry continued farming and worked at Donaldson’s for 20+ years before retiring in 2007. He was a hard worker, a problem solver, and a critical thinker. He could fix anything with duct tape, bailing twine, wire or whatever he could think of that would solve the problem.

He also could throw together a string of swear words you may have never heard before in your life.  All the kids and grandkids would tease him about his word choices. We had a swear jar in the house for when the grandkids came up. Jerry had to put a quarter in the swear jar every time he said a swear word and sometimes the grandkids left with lots of quarters that weekend.

Jerry really, really liked his Chinese food. He would savor every bite until he was very full. Then he would say “I’m not eating for the rest of the day.” But we all knew that wasn’t true. He loved his family and treasured his time with them. He was one of a kind, and as hard as it is to bid him farewell, the memories he has left us will carry us through our grief. The lessons he taught each of us will lead us on our road ahead.

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents (Louis and Louise), brother Larry and sister-in-law Diann.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 33 years, Diana, children: Jerrad (Trish) and their children, Haley, Jake, and Lexi. Kim (Josh) Jones and their children: Micheal (Brennah), McKenzie (Bobbi), Morgan, Max, and Sam. Quentin (Chrissy) Amundson. Great grandchildren Alex, Aria, Daniel, Kenny, Scarlet. Nieces Debbie Swestka, Sharon Smith and Lori Swestka Lukes.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to RHSHC Hospice in Jerry’s name. Condolences may be sent to 517 8th St East, Cresco, IA 52136.

Hindt-Hudek Funeral Home is assisting the family.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.