Jerald Joseph Bethke, affectionately known as Jerry, passed away peacefully on April 13, 2025. Born on July 3, 1937, in Sedalia, Missouri, to Arthur and Thelma Bethke, Jerry lived a life defined by dedicated service, commitment to community, and deep devotion to family.
Jerry graduated from Smith-Cotton High School in 1955 and honorably served in the United States Navy from 1955 to 1958, achieving the rank of Aviation Machinist Mate (ADR3). Stationed at Midway Island, he earned the Good Conduct Medal. The formative experiences in the Navy profoundly shaped Jerry’s character, instilling in him discipline, integrity, and a lifelong dedication to service.
His commitment extended prominently into Scouting. An Eagle Scout since June 20, 1955, Jerry dutifully supported the Boy Scouts of America for nearly 60 years. He served as Scoutmaster of Troop 67 and Head Scoutmaster of Troop 312, in addition to roles as Unit Commissioner, Senior Campmaster, and active member of the Blue Elk District Advancement Committee. Recognized for his distinguished service, Jerry received the District Award of Merit and served as Sachem “Swift Cutter of Venison” within the Tribe of Mic-O-Say.
Jerry had a longstanding career across various industries. Early in his career, he was head meat cutter at Jerry’s United Super at 35th and Noland in Independence, Missouri, demonstrating exceptional skill and leadership. Later, he worked at Allis Chalmers from 1976 to 1982, contributing in sub-assembly, production line rework, and as a combine driver. Jerry was also involved in building docks at Johnson Brothers Marina at the Lake of the Ozarks during the 1980s, showcasing his carpentry talents and dedication to quality workmanship. He also worked at Lake City Army Ammunition Plant, where he was highly regarded for his steadfast reliability and leadership.
Jerry was married to Patricia Blumhorst on May 16, 1959, until her passing in 1996. Together, they lovingly raised two sons, Jerald Alan and Jeffrey Joseph. After Patricia’s death, Jerry had the good fortune to find a second great love of his life in Elizabeth Ann Battles. They married in 2000 and enjoyed 25 years of happiness together. Jerry benefited from a second family, embracing Elizabeth’s adult children and 10 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Jerry was an involved and longtime member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and Ascension Lutheran Church, actively contributing to their congregations and communities.
Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth Ann Bethke; his oldest son Alan, his wife Lin, and their son Matthew; his son Jeffrey, his wife Leah, and their children Eleni and William. He is also lovingly remembered by his extended family: Elizabeth’s sons Kurt and his wife Lynn, Jon and his wife Marla, Scott and his wife Dee; daughters Pam, Jennifer Whitworth and her husband Bryan; and many cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brother Arthur, his first wife Patricia, and his parents Arthur and Thelma.
Jerry will be profoundly missed by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.
Graveside service for Jerry will be Saturday, April 19, 2025 at 11 a.m. at the St Paul Lutheran Cemetery, 37507 East Route P, in Saline City. Visitation will be Friday, April 18 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the McGilley and Sheil Funeral Home and Crematory Services, 11924 East 47th Street, Kansas City, MO 64133.