Jerry M. McConkey, age 88, of Maple Lake, formerly of Grove City and Spring Lake, died Saturday, December 2, 2017 at the St. Cloud Hospital.

Memorial Services will be held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, December 9, 2017 at the First Baptist Church of Grove City with Pastor Peter Lee officiating. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday at the church.

Jerry Morris McConkey was born March 5, 1929 in Galatia, Kansas to Clarence M. and Ocie (Thomas) McConkey.  Jerry grew up in Quinter, where he attended school. In 1948, Jerry graduated from Quinter High School. He then furthered his education by attending Fort Hays State & McPherson College to obtain his education degree. Eventually, Jerry obtained a Master’s of Education from Washburn University. On June 6, 1954 he was united in marriage to Geraldine Rusile McConkey in Topeka, Kansas. Jerry devoted many years to educating the youth. He was an elementary school teacher for 3 years in Quinter, Kansas, 3 years in Topeka, Kansas, and 17 years in Spring Lake, Minnesota where he also held position of principal for 3 years. While in Spring Lake Jerry created the first outdoor classroom in the State of Minnesota. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Grove City, Gideon’s International, a snowmobile club, and the Optimist Club, where he mentored youth in outdoor activities. Jerry loved his family, was a man of many talents, enjoyed working with his hands, antique cars, building homes, and simply being in the great outdoors.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Geraldine of Maple Lake; sons, Rusty (Marilyn) of Hibbing, Scott of Detroit Lakes, and Tracy (Melody) of Cokato; daughter, Heidi (Doug) Kelm of Maple Lake; sister, Willadean Graham of Colorado Springs, CO; brother, Darris (Roma) of Olathe, KS; 11 grandchildren; and 1 great granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Billy and Clarence Jr; sisters, Arthena Beckwith and Treva Crabill. 

 Service Information