Gerald "Jerry" E. Critz

Gerald “Jerry” Elmer Critz, 90, passed away on October 13, 2024, at Wesley Acres on Grand Ave in Des Moines, IA. Born on November 22, 1933, Jerry’s life was marked by a profound commitment to his family, career, and community.

Jerry attended Holy Trinity primary school and graduated from Dowling Catholic High School in 1951. He enlisted in the Army, serving in Germany from 1953 to 1955, where he developed skills that would later benefit his professional and personal life. He married his wife, Bonnie Jeanne Leake in August of 1959. In March of 1969, his only child, a daughter, Susan was born. Jerry began his career at Northwestern Bell Telephone Company in 1952 as a cable splicer. His aptitude and dedication propelled him through various roles, leading into management, and culminating into a pivotal role as a lobbyist until his retirement in 1997.

A devout member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Jerry took a special interest in attending the Spanish mass and volunteered helping families learn English as a second language. Jerry’s zest for life was evident in his diverse hobbies. An avid musician, he enjoyed playing drums and guitar. He loved fishing in northern Minnesota, boating on the river in Dubuque, and motorcycling. Jerry was also a keen golfer and had a passion for vintage Corvettes. His intellectual curiosity was displayed in his love for reading and learning new languages. He was gifted with a quick wit and the ability to make others laugh.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Bonnie J. Critz; daughter, Susan M. Critz; siblings, Hal Critz (Patty), Mary Anne Critz, Dorothy Montinguise, Kathleen (Bob) Smyth, and Mark Critz. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mark O. and Gretchen M. Critz.

A memorial service will be held 2:00 p.m. Thursday, October 24, 2024 at McLaren’s Resthaven Chapel in West Des Moines with visitation from 1:00 p.m. until service time at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Wesley Acres Foundation to the Good Samaritan/Good Shepherd Fund, honoring Gerald's spirit of generosity and community support.

The family wishes to express a special thank you to the doctors, nurses, CNA’s, and all other staff members at Wesley Acres who not only took care of Jerry, but became his extended family during his time there. We know they will miss his never-ending supply of Tootsie Rolls and M&M’s as much as he loved sharing them.