Gerald A. Drenth

Gerald Arthur Drenth, age 72, of Lismore, MN, died August 23, 2019 at home surrounded by his family.

He was born January 20, 1947 to Arthur and Henrietta (Mulder) Drenth. Gerald began his grade school education by attending country school in Midland township, and graduated in 1965 from Ellsworth Public School. After graduation he attended Nettleton College in Sioux Falls, SD.

Gerald spent most of his young life living on the family farm by Ellsworth, MN. Besides farming, Gerald also owned and operated an implement business in Lismore and Ellsworth. He was also an owner operator Truck Driver with his favorite job working with the Wind Towers.

The Military was a big part of Gerald's life. He entered the Army in January 1967, and was proud to serve his country during the Vietnam Conflict. During that time, he was awarded many medals including the Army Commendation Metal for heroism. At that time, he carried a lighter that reflected the inscription "You haven't lived until you have almost died". He lived by those words. With complete disregard to his own safety, he protected members of his platoon and in turn almost lost his own life. He was a Sergeant in the 199th Light Infantry Brigade. His date of discharge was February 1970. 

Gerald was united in marriage to Anna Boltjes on September 11, 1976. They resided in Lismore, MN where they raised their four wonderful children.

Gerald enjoyed fishing, boating, hunting, camping, flying RC airplanes, drones, flying an Ultralight aircraft, a Cessma 152 airplane, and watching old western movies. But he especially enjoyed being with his grandchildren.

Gerald was a member of American Legion Post #636 of Lismore, MN and of the South West High Flyers near Rushmore, MN

Gerald is survived by his wife Anna, children; Tricia (Willie) Ziebarth, Harrisburg, SD, Jim (Fran) Drenth, Sioux Falls, SD, Mike Drenth, Lismore, MN, Carrie (Eric) Olson, St. Helens OR. Five grandchildren; Maddie and Brookie Ziebarth, Cheyanne Olson, Arthur and Ernest Drenth.

   A time of fellowship will be Thursday from 5-8 pm at the Dingmann Funeral Home in Adrian; and also one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. Memorial service will be 10:30 am Friday at Zion Presbyterian Church, in Ellsworth, officiated by Pastor Paul Snyder. A private family burial of cremains will be at a later date.

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