Jerry Urdahl

Jerome Kenwood Urdahl completed his baptismal journey and returned through death to God's heavenly embrace on April 8th, 2026 at the age of 93 years. Jerry was born December 16, 1932, ("One hundred years too late.") to Clarence and Violet (Ness) Urdahl in Litchfield, MN. He was the oldest of 5 children.

Jerry was baptized in the Lutheran faith and confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church. He graduated from Grove City High School in 1951. Upon graduation, Jerry joined the US Marine Corps, serving in active duty during the Korean war. After his honorable discharge, he toured as a member of the Marine Corps basketball team and served in the Marine Corps Honor Guard. Upon his return to civilian life he attended Brown Institute, in Minneapolis, earning a degree in radio broadcasting.

Jerry married Betty Nelson on June 29th, 1958 at Beckville, Lutheran Church. They lived in Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin before returning to their hometown of Litchfield in 2016, where they purchased the home they had rented as a young couple.

Jerry enjoyed his work as a farm broadcaster and director for both radio and TV in several states. He was one of the original broadcasters at KLFD radio in Litchfield. He served as a mentor to many in the broadcasting field. Jerry was an active member of the National Association of Farm Broadcasters for more than 60 years and was among a small group of broadcasters to be called to Washington, DC to advise President Jimmy Carter. He and Betty hosted several European Farm tours. They filled tour buses with his viewers and listeners, educating and introducing American farmers to their counterparts across many European countries. He retired from WEAU/WAXX TV/radio, Eau Claire, Wisconsin.

Spending time with family was very important to Jerry. Family gatherings at their home in Fall Creek, Wisconsin grew larger over the years as their family of five children grew to include grandchildren and great grandchildren. "Papa" was a role model to his grandchildren and created many special memories with his storytelling, witty humor, and the many activities he enjoyed with them. He imparted a solid work ethic and morals. A man of many hobbies, he enjoyed leatherworking, and crafted saddles, bridles, and harnesses. He also customized many leather projects for his family. He was an avid coin collector, and enjoyed discussing the history of his unique collection with all who stopped by. Horses were at the heart of who he was, his love for them ran deep and was reflected in his collection of antique farm equipment. He donated his extensive collection of antique farm machinery to the Forest City Stockade.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Betty, their children, Christian (Dale) Urdahl of Coon Rapids, MN; Anne (Jeff ) Caswell of Veneta, OR; Sarah (Eric) Balz of Stillwater, MN; Eric (Jill) Urdahl of Eau Claire,WI, 10 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Lisa Campbell, his great granddaughter, Stella Asil Campbell.

Visitation will be held Saturday, April 25, at 10:00am with a service following at 11:00am at First Lutheran Church in Litchfield, MN. Following lunch, there will be a Marine Corps Honor burial at Ness Lutheran Church.