Date of Birth:
Wednesday, November 1, 1939
Date of Death:
Friday, December 19, 2025
Age:
86 years old

Jerry E. Ryks

Jerry Eugene Ryks, 86, passed away on December 19, 2025, following a fall and brain bleed. Jerry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He lived a full life, one marked by hard work, laughter, and a deep love for his family.

Born November 1, 1939, to Ben and Manda Ryks, Jerry was raised in the Austin area and graduated from Austin High School. He proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1959 as part of the 82nd Airborne. Following his service, Jerry worked in a variety of fields, including as a youth for the railroad, the Mower County Highway Department, and for 30 years at Hormel Foods, where he eventually retired. He was also a successful entrepreneur, owning a liquor store in Rochester, and several apartments, and beauty shops in Austin. Jerry’s skills as a handyman were well-known—he could fix almost anything, from concrete work to shingling and construction.

In addition to his work life, Jerry was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting and fishing. He loved racing stock cars at Lansing Speedway and Kasson Raceway, and he had a special place in his heart for his vacation home on the Mississippi River, where he spent countless hours fishing, water skiing, and making memories with his family. He also enjoyed snowmobiling in Wyoming, cross-country trips, and riding motorcycles. He was a proud member of the Spam Town Snowmobiling Club, Eagles, American Legion, and the Lake George Committee.

Jerry’s laughter was contagious, and he had a special talent for playing tricks on his friends and family, always bringing joy to those around him. His love for life and his adventurous spirit left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Rose Ryks, and his children: Terry (Belinda) Ryks, Tammy (Joe) Christianson, Todd (Shelly) Ryks, and stepdaughter Amy (Todd) Miller. He was a proud grandfather to Brittney, Jacquie, Jaide, Noah, Sydney, Kallie, Kourtney, and Paige, and a great-grandfather to Mateo, and Charlee. He is also survived by his brother, Ben Ryks, stepbrothers and sisters, Kelly, Verlyn, Janelle, Larry, and Duane Ryks, and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Manda Ryks; his brother, Elso; his brother, Marv; and his sister Marcella Stemson.

A memorial service to celebrate Jerry’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 24, 2026, in the River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home with visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will take place at a later date in the Minnesota State Veteran’s Cemetery in Preston.

Jerry’s legacy will live on through the love of his family, his many stories, and the laughter he shared with all who had the privilege of knowing him. To share a condolence online please visit www.mackenfuneralhome.com