Jerry Wessels

Corvallis, MT - Gerald “Jerry” Wessels, 89 of Corvallis passed away Monday, June 10, 2024 at his home.

Jerry was born in Cottonwood Idaho on April 8, 1935 to Anthony and Elizabeth Wessels. Jerry was the youngest of ten children. He lived with his family on the family farm west of Greencreek, ID. He attended School at Greencreek and graduated from Greencreek High School in 1953. He continued living on the farm where he farmed with his Dad and brother Joe. He entered the U.S. Army in 1955 where he served until being honorably discharged in 1957.

In 1956 he married Kaye Goodall, they lived in Yuma AZ. Until he was discharged from the military. They then moved to Grangeville Id. Where he worked for Jordan Motors, the ford dealer. While in Grangeville they raised their five children and lived there until the children were out of high school.

In 1959 he went to work for General Tire and Retreading in Grangeville ID. In 1966 this company was sold to Les Schwab Tire Centers and he continued working for them as store manager in Grangeville. In 1987 he and Kaye bought a tire store in Hamilton MT and became a Les Schwab member dealer. They operated the business for many years, eventually selling the business to their son and daughter.

Jerry was a lifelong member of the Catholic Church and was active in church functions. While in Grangeville he served on the board of Snow Haven ski area and served one term as president of the board. Upon moving to Hamilton MT, he was a communicant of St. Francis Parish, and a member of The Knights of Columbus.

He was a member of the Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce and served on the board of directors. He served as President of that board for one term. He was also active in the Bitterroot Valley Ridgerunners Snowmobile club and served as President of the club for one term.

He enjoyed fishing, skiing and snowmobiling. After retirement he and Kaye purchased property in the Corvallis area and built a new home. He enjoyed farming for several years and always enjoyed being outdoors and active.

He is survived by Kaye, his wife of 68 years and best friend; son Dennis Wessels; four daughters Susan Sellers of Snohomish, WA., Sharon Stamper of Hamilton, MT., Janet Humphrey of Newton, AI and Connie Elsner of Spring Creek, NV.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 19, 2024 at St. Francis Catholic Church with Father David Severson officiating. Interment will follow at Corvallis Cemetery. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com