Jerry Mutchler

Devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. 

Jerry passed away at Hope West on August 24th, 2024 at the age of 85, following a battle with cancer. 

Jerry had a long and rewarding life. 

Jerry was born in Bismark, North Dakota. He graduated from Palisade High School in 1957. He participated in many activities and had many friends. Jerry was an All-State football player during his Junior and Senior season. He was then an all-conference and Jr. College all American at Mesa Jr. College, as well as the all - conference wrestling champion. He then served 8 years in the Colorado National Guard. He finished his commitment as a Staff Sergeant. 

Jerry married the love of his life in 1962, and they were happily married for 62 wonderful years. 

Jerry started a State Farm Agency in Denver until they moved to Cedaredge. All his children graduated from Cedaredge HS. The family enjoyed Cedaredge, and still have many friends there. The family moved to Grand Junction in 1988, where Jerry continued selling insurance on the western slope, until he retired in 2012. 

Jerry and Janie enjoyed traveling on many domestic and foreign trips but their evenings in their backyard garden and walks in the neighborhood, visiting with friends meant everything to them. Hiking together in the mountains brought so much joy to their lives. 

Jerry was preceded in death by his wife Janie, who passed away earlier this year. He is survived by his children Amy Smith, Mark Mutchler, Julie Cross (Bryan). Grandchildren Courtney Cross (Taylor), Cassie Cross (Tucker), Chris Smith (Dominque), Dustin Smith (Linda), Brandon Franklin (Skyler), and great grandchildren Kylie Smith and McKenna Smith. 

Dad said he felt so blessed to have all his friends come visit him daily during his illness, Family Heath West memory care shared with us that Jerry was their most popular resident!

There will be a memorial service at Redlands United Methodist Church on September 28th at 10:00 AM 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hope West.