July 02, 2025

Jerry Ralph Nunn

Jan. 26, 2019

It is with great sadness that the family of Jerry Ralph Nunn announces his passing Saturday, Jan. 26, 2019, in Bozeman, Mont.

Jerry was born in Des Moines, Feb. 4, 1954, and grew up in Newton, where he was a graduate of Newton High School. Jerry attended the University of Iowa and graduated with a BS and MS in the field of geology. He lived most of his adult life in Bozeman.

Jerry lived an adventurous life. He was an excellent swimmer and was a lifeguard at Maytag Park Pool during high school. He rescued a young boy from drowning one summer. He also fell into the Iowa River during one winter in Iowa City and was able to rescue himself due to his swimming skills. He enjoyed going to concerts to see bands like Yes and Jethro Tull with his sister. Due to his 6’5” height, he was always able to navigate through the crowd to find the best spots.

After college, he moved to Montana to pursue his career in geology. He worked for Pegasus Mining Company in the field and various other positions. After leaving the mining industry, he worked as a rural mail carrier for the United State Postal Service.

In his free time, you could find him skiing, hiking and camping. On one of his ski trips, he went alone into a restricted area and fell and shattered his leg. Jerry was lucky that ski patrol happened to be in the area to save him. He was a gentle giant who loved nature and exploring the world around him.

Jerry will be fondly remembered by his siblings, Jim (Rene’) Nunn of St. Louis, Mo., and Nancy Nunn of West Des Moines; and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family and friends. Jerry was predeceased by his parents, Ralph and Margaret Nunn.

A celebration of Jerry’s life will be held privately by the family.

Jerry’s family would like to thank the wonderful people in Bozeman for their kindness and help during this time.

“If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however, measured or far away.” — Henry David Thoreau

Arrangements are in the care of Dokken-Nelson Funeral Service, dokkennelson.com.​