Jerry L. Pederson, age 78 of Monroe, Wisconsin passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family on May 29, 2026.
Jerry was born June 29, 1947 to Norman and Doris (Hendrickson) Pederson. He married Beverly (Arn) Pederson June 13, 1970 at Zwingli United Church of Christ, Monticello.
Jerry attended Monticello High School and began working at The Iroquois Foundry, Browntown, until he was drafted into the U.S. Army in October 1968 at age 21. After completing basic training, he was stationed in Germany and completed his service with an honorary discharge.
Upon returning back home, he continued working at Iroquois Foundry for 27 years in various positions with the later years as a supervisor. He wanted a change from foundry work, which is no easy job. He decided to start farming and started out by purchasing a large square baler and tractor to do custom big square bales which got him a nickname of "Big Bale". He proceeded to increase his farming business by renting lots of crop land. Jerry loved farming and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone that needed it. Jerry was always a very hard worker but also took time out to socialize with his friends whether it be playing cards, playing on ball teams, bowling, hunting, and fishing once a year with his brother, Dave, and other friends that went to Canada. Jerry also enjoyed tractor pulling for a few years. He loved helping his children get their 4-H cattle ready for showing. He enjoyed going to the north woods, spending time with family, helping the grandkids bait their hooks, and was a good bags competitor. He will be truly missed by many friends and family but we know "JP" is resting peacefully in heaven with many friends and family that have passed before him.
Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Bev; and three children: Lisa (Tom) McClaren of Brodhead, Brenda (Jason May) Schwartzlow of Brodhead, Scott (Amber) Pederson of Belleville. 8 grandchildren: Kaylee (Kale) Shirley of Marshall, Ashlen (Ryan) Cashore of Janesville. Kyle (Lauryn Babka) Fischer of Suamico, Tyler (Shyann Autumn) Schwartzlow of Brodhead, Brayden Schwartzlow of Brodhead and Anika, Stella and Nash Pederson of Belleville. 3 great grandchildren with one more on the way, Everett and Ava Shirley, Oaklynn Schwartzlow and baby boy Cashore due in October. Jerry is also survived by two brothers, Dave (Carolyn) Pederson of Sauk City, Ralph Pederson of Monroe. Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Doris Pederson.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. at Zwingli United Church of Christ in Monticello. The services will conclude with full military services. Rev. Peter Strobel will officiate with a luncheon immediately following in Zwingli fellowship hall. Visitation will precede the service beginning at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be established in Jerry's name. The Newcomer Funeral Home, Monroe, is assisting the family. Condolences may be shared at www.newcomerfuneralhome.net
The family would like to thank SSM Monroe Hospice for the wonderful care and support.
