Gerald “Jerry” Pfeifer, 74, Bowbells, N.D.
passed away on Sunday May 26, 2019 in the Kenmare Hospital.
Gerald Manfred Pfeifer was born August 27, 1944, a son of
Hilbert Sr. and Gladys (Swenson) Pfeifer in Crosby, N.D. He
always said he was the middle child of 6, an older brother,
then twin brothers, himself then his younger brother and
sister. Jerry was “supposed” to be a girl; so he ended up
helping more inside, but still was part of outside farming
activities. He was raised on the family farm, the same one
he farmed, and which is now farmed by his son Steven. Jerry
continued to be involved in some way with farming until he
passed.
He was educated in Bowbells, graduating from there in 1962.
He then went to Minneapolis, M.N. where he worked in a
hospital. For a semester, he attended NDSU Fargo, N.D. On
September 4, 1963 Jerry enrolled in ND State College of
Science in Wahpeton where he received his Trade Tech Diploma
in Printing on May 27, 1966. He started his newspaper career
at the Kenmare News.
On July 21, 1967, Jerry was united in marriage to Ollie Ann
Folkers in Tolley, N.D. they Started their life together in
Watford City, then Rugby, moving next to Crosby in 1969. He
had worked for the newspaper in each town. Deciding to try a
new adventure, they purchased the clothing store in Bowbells,
January 1974. Always one for challenges, they acquired the
Bowbells Lanes and fast food. When his brother Dwight
decided to sell the Bowbells Tribune, Jerry has the
opportunity to get back in the newspaper business.
Meanwhile, since the building could be 2 stories, why not
put the newspaper upstairs, add a lounge area to the bowling
alley, and because no manager was found, run that business
too?
His love of farming was always with him, so he helped his
father on the farm. Gradually the businesses were sold and
he stayed with farming full time. While farming, he was
often the one to try the new approach; he was actually one
of the first in this area to have a semi, for example. He
enjoyed the outdoors, camping, across N.D. and Canada,
fishing with the grandchildren, the cabin at Mouse River
Park, planting and harvesting.
His son Steven loved racing including motorcycles and moving
up to cars, so of course Jerry became a pit man and avid
fan. He continued to like racing, especially when his
grandson, Sladen started driving a Slingshot. He also was an
avid NDSU Bison football fan watching and re-watching the
recorded games. Of course, one of his favorite pro teams is
the Philadelphia Eagles.
He loved to visit because he was interested in the other
person. He often became a confidant. It was as though they
knew their story was safe with him. He truly loved people,
especially his pride and joy--his grandchildren.
As his physical health began to deteriorate, no matter which
condition, others wouldn’t know until the decline became
obvious to the naked eye. He would not complain and it
certainly wasn’t going to keep him out of the tractor or the
combine! Nor would he stop taking drives “to check the
crops!”
Jerry was lifelong member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church. He
was a strong believer with a quiet disposition. He had also
been involved as a Sunday school teacher, Bowbells Business
Club, Jaycees, Bowbells Golf Course, School Board (and as
president proudly presented his son Steven with his high
school diploma). He was currently on the Fire District.
Recently he became a part of the Monday Night Card Group
which he thoroughly enjoyed.
Jerry is survived by: Wife of 51 years, Ollie Ann, Daughter:
Stacey Pfeifer; Son: Steven (Karen) Pfeifer, Kris Schestler-
who Jerry embraced as his own son “Son #3”; Grandchildren:
Connor Sheppard, Caitlin Sheppard, Sladen Pfeifer and Acelyn
Pfeifer; Siblings: Hilbert Jr. (Joyce) Pfeifer, Dwaine
Pfeifer, Dwight (Bev Johnston) Pfeifer, Norris (Rynenne)
Pfeifer, Ella Marie (Jerry) Gustafson; In-laws: Otto (Ruby)
Folkers, David Folkers, several nieces, nephews, and
cousins.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, father and
mother in law Berend and Anna Folkers, son Scott; in laws
Carolyn Pfeifer, Judi Pfeifer, Evelyn (Gerald) Swanson,
Elaine (Frank) Woodall.
Visitation: Friday May 31, 2019 one hour prior to the
service at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Bowbells, N.D.
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