Jerry Earl Dexter

Jerry Dexter, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away suddenly on November 4, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on October 27, 1946, at Holy Cross Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah. The son of Jack Faulkner Dexter and June Wright Dexter, Jerry was raised in a close-knit family, along with his siblings Judi, Jay, Jeff, Joy, Janet, and Jill. When Jerry was 12, the Dexter family relocated to Minnesota, where he would later meet his wife, Katherine Koelln. Jerry and Katherine married on June 18, 1974, in the Manti Temple, forging a bond that would last 52 beautiful years. Together, they raised five wonderful children: Charlie, Ben, Amanda, Elizabeth, and Andrew, who sadly predeceased him. Jerry's educational journey began at Osseo High School, where he graduated in 1964. He went on to earn an Associate Degree in Applied Science from North Hennipen Jr College. In 1971, he enrolled at Brigham Young University (BYU), graduating in 1974 with a Bachelor of Science Degree. Jerry's dedication to his country was evident in his service in the US Army from 1966 to 1968 and later as a member of the US Army Reserves until the late 1990s. Throughout his life, Jerry worked in various roles, including fast food restaurants, delivery businesses, Deseret Industries, and shuttle companies. Jerry was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and was active in many extracurricular activities, including track, cross-country, chess, and fencing. Jerry enjoyed camping, canoeing, cross stitching, puzzles, Western movies, and creating beautiful dream catchers. He loved chasing his grandchildren and great-grandchildren around and tickling them. Jerry is survived by his wife Katherine, his children Charlie (Amber) Dexter, Ben (Julie) Dexter, Amanda Malone, and Elizabeth (Tyler) Sellers. He is also survived by 15 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and his siblings Joy Hansen, Janet (Bob) Baldwin, and Jill Richey. A memorial to celebrate Jerry's life will be held on November 14, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Falcon Crest LDS Ward House, located at 6710 W 4145 S, West Valley City, UT. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice. Additionally, contributions to Valley View Cemetery niches are greatly appreciated; please contact the family for more information. Jerry's legacy of love, humor, and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.