Gerald 'Jerry' Hesse

Gerald Lloyd Hesse, 70, of Watkins, MN, passed away on June 10th, 2026 at his home surrounded by his family.

Jerry was born on May 30th, 1956 in St. Cloud to Albert and Marcella (Young) Hesse. He grew up in Watkins and graduated from Eden Valley-Watkins High School. He was united in marriage to LuAnn Moehrle on May 8, 1976 at the Assumption Church in Eden Valley.

A hardworking man with a strong work ethic, Jerry began driving truck at the age of 19. Throughout his career, he hauled grain, gravel, and heavy equipment, earning the respect of those who worked alongside him. He took great pride in his work and the many miles he traveled over the years.

When he wasn’t working, he loved traveling, especially taking cruises. He found happiness in camping trips, fishing outings, cooking and gathering around a table for a good game of cards. His grandchildren brought him immense joy and you could find him in the bleachers or on the sidelines cheering them on.

Jerry was a member of the St. Anthony Catholic Church, a Watkins firefighter for 28 years, was a member of the Watkins Lions Club and also served on the Watkins city council.

Jerry is survived by his devoted wife of 50 wonderful years of marriage, LuAnn Hesse of Watkins, children and their spouses, Craig (Sunny) Hesse of Cold Spring, Colleen (Jason) Glenz of Watkins, Cora (Jesus) Segura of Sartell and Chad (Vanessa) Hesse of Dassel and grandchildren Macey, Madison and Miley Hesse, Brooklyn and Blake Glenz, and Mateo and Mara Segura, brothers and sisters, Bob Hesse of Rochester, Larry (Pat) Hesse of Paynesville, Pat (Nick) Brandt of Kimball, Alice (Jim) Ashwill of Monticello, David Hesse of St. Peter, Art (Debbie) Hesse of Cold Spring, Chuck (Mary Jo) Hesse of Eden Valley, Nora (Mike) Becker of Eden Valley; sister-in-law, Marlene Hesse of Watkins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jim Hesse, sister Donna Dockendorf, twin sisters in infancy, granddaughter Josie Hesse, brother in law Will Backes and father & mother in law Joseph & Margaret Moehrle.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 11th from 1-4 p.m. at Queen Bees in Paynesville. Jerry said “you feed everyone or you don’t feed anyone at all” so we’re feeding everyone.