Jerome (Jerre) DeWayne Heikkila of Affton, Missouri, passed away on May 18, 2026, at the age of 78.
Jerre was born in Superior, Wisconsin, on September 24, 1947. He served his country in the Wisconsin National Guard from 1967 through 1974 and later attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Eino and Alice Heikkila, and his brothers, Leroy and Timothy. He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Janice; his son, Jay; his daughter-in-law, Maddy; his grandchildren, Hannah and Hope; and his sister, Lola Marks.
Jerre was a devoted husband, loving father, and wonderful grandfather. He enjoyed spending time with his family, at his lake home, watching movies, and following local Wisconsin and Minnesota professional and collegiate sports teams. He also enjoyed fishing and playing poker with his friends.
People were drawn to Jerre for his wit, gentle spirit, open-mindedness, and unflappable nature. He was generous with his time and wisdom, always willing to lend a hand or offer thoughtful advice. With quiet confidence, discretion, and integrity, he earned the trust and respect of those around him. These qualities served him well throughout a nursing career that spanned more than 40 years.
Jerre will be deeply missed by all who loved him. We will forever remember his compassionate heart, steady presence, wonderful sense of humor, and the countless ways he enriched our lives.
Celebration of Life
Family and friends are invited to celebrate the life of Jerre on Saturday, September 26, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Benny Gordon Recreation Center, 33 E. Glendale, Webster Groves, MO 63119.
In honor of Jerre and his love of the Minnesota Vikings, close family members will be wearing Vikings apparel as we celebrate his life and carry on his tradition of cheering for the team throughout the 2027 season.
We will also be enjoying a day of activities at one of Jerre’s favorite places – the lake home!
Jan, I’m so sorry to hear of Jerre’s passing.
I hope your family and years of memories give you some comfort during this difficult time. Sending hugs from MN.
Jan, I am so sorry to hear of Jerre’s passing. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers! Hugs! Gloria Harth
Hi, We are sorry to miss celebrating Jerre’s life with you next Sat.
We already have plans to be in Iowa. Sending you all prayers of comfort and strength.
Jan, I’m so glad we were able to get together this summer to share after Jerre passed. My thoughts are with you, Jay and the family as you celebrate Jerre’s life. I pray for you as you journey life without your husband and best friend. It is still something I’m still trying to figure out. Remember you’re memories of what a funny, dedicated, family man he was. We are all lucky to have known him. Bless you my friend!
hello
You do not know me but I worked with Jerre at Abbott Northwestern Hospital for 20 some years. I worked nights with Jerre about 50% of my hours. He was the perfect boss–there when you needed him and things were going to pot with a patient and leaving you alone (not looking over your shoulder all the time) when things were quiet. The depth and breadth of his knowledge were impressive and he was a wonderful teacher. He had a kind word for everyone and never (NEVER) got flustered. I learned a lot from him over the years and maybe the most important was that quiet calm when all else around you are going crazy. I am sorry for your loss. Jerre was a man worth much more than we know.
Susan Parham. (I was Sue Riley when he knew me)