Gerald Qualley

Gerald “Jerry” Melvin Qualley, 60, of Hawley, Minnesota passed on August 16, 2016 at his home with his family at his side. Jerry’s life-long dream was to live in the country with Judy. The dream was in sight when they purchased land in Pinewood, MN; a perfect place for them to be. Another dream was to build a garage at what they fondly call, Pinewood. That dream came true when Jerry’s family banded together and built a beautiful garage. Jerry watched the construction with pride and heartfelt thanks.

Jerry was born on February 21, 1956 in Crookston, MN, the son of Arnold Qualley and AnnSalverson Lorenz. He attended school in Crookston and soon after met the love of his life, Judy Bateman. On March 6, 1976, Jerry and Judy were united in marriage at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Crookston. They resided in Crookston and soon moved to Grand Forks, ND where Jerry worked for Jay Leach Painting. In 1979 they moved to Denver, Colorado where their beautiful daughter Alicia was born. Homesick, Jerry and Judy returned to Minnesota in 1988 and purchased a home in Hawley, MN. Jerry painted for several private painters over the years and ultimately, accepted a painting position in 2008 at North Dakota State University in Fargo, ND.

Jerry’s favorite things were to be around his grandchildren Jaxsen and Penellipi. He wanted to teach Jaxsen everything about fishing and hunting and was proud to be able to purchase Jaxsen the supplies to hunt and fish. Jerry loved being at Pinewood with Judy and his family and loved his time fishing with friends and family.

Loving family members include his wife, Judy; daughter Alicia and fiancé Nicholas Nikk Caputo; grandchildren Jaxsen 6 and Penellipi 3 months old; his mother Anne, brothers David & Kristi of Oslo, Randy & Tamaara of Wheatridge, Co; Steve & Sally of East Grand Forks, MN; Wade of Denham Springs, La; and sisters, Cindy Randy Driscoll of East Grand Forks, Terrie Anne Burslie of Lakeville, MN; and many nieces, nephews and other relatives.

Jerry will always be in our thoughts and sadly missed by family, friends and those who knew him. Jerry is now fishing in heaven.

Visitation for Jerry will be held at the home of Scott and Maureen Aubol at 530 Lincoln Avenue, Crookston, MN on Thursday, August 18, 2016 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.