86
Sioux Falls, SD
April 13, 2020
Gerald James Harsma, son of Gerald and Bertha (VanderZiel) Harsma, was born March 25, 1934, in Rock Rapids, Iowa.
Gerald was united in marriage with Evelyn Jeanette Eernisse on November 29, 1953, in Valley Springs and they lived in Sioux Falls where they raised their four children, Rick, Vicki, Lori and James.
Gerald graduated from Humboldt High School in 1952. He received his engineering degree through correspondence courses and worked with several companies around the world designing controls and piping systems. During his free time, he enjoyed woodworking and gardening. He also loved fishing and spending time with his children and grandchildren. Later, he turned to bread baking, Scrabble and Words with Friends to fill his time. Throughout their 60 years of marriage, Evelyn and Gerald enjoyed cooking together and loved hosting weekly Sunday dinners for their extended family and friends.
Grateful for having shared his life are his children and their spouses, Rick and Theresa Harsma, Owatonna, Minn.), Vicki and Larry Jelsma, Sioux Falls, Lori and Steve Grimes, Sioux Falls, James and Julie Harsma, Sioux Falls; 11 grandchildren and their spouses, eight great-grandchildren and many other relatives and friends.
Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Evelyn, and a brother, Don.
COVID Service Update: The family will be present to greet friends from 1-3 pm Saturday, July 31, 2021, with a time of sharing at 2 pm at Miller Funeral Home-South Chapel, 7400 S. Minnesota Ave., Sioux Falls, SD.
Arrangements provided by Miller Funeral Home.