Jerry Monroe Van Osdol, 64, died at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2017. He was born on Dec. 6, 1952, in Hays, Kansas, to Perry H. and Hazel I. (North) Van Osdol.

Jerry graduated from Buhler High School in 1971, and was the senior class president. He was one of those rare people who stayed in touch with his school friends. After high school, Jerry attended Hutchinson Community College before relocating to Vail, Colorado, where his love of skiing eventually translated into a long, rewarding career in the ski industry. His career choice never lost its appeal and allowed him to travel across the United States. Jerry also had a lifelong interest in anything with wheels. His happiest times were on the road or skiing.

All the men in the Van Osdol family pursued the rank of Eagle Scout through the Boy Scouts of America. Jerry not only achieved this goal, but was awarded his Eagle badge by Bob Dole, retired United States Senator from the State of Kansas.  In 1969, Jerry and several of his scouting friends attended the Boy Scout National Jamboree in Idaho.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Perry and Hazel Van Osdol, and by his sister, Mary E. (Van Osdol) Rich. He is survived by two sons; Jebadiah M. Van Osdol of Hutchinson, Kansas, and Clay L. Van Osdol of Sacramento, California; granddaughter Kenzy Van Osdol of Hutchinson, Kansas; siblings Perry Van Osdol of Overland Park, Kansas, and Sherry (Van Osdol) Eales of Edmond, Oklahoma.  There are also first cousins and numerous nieces and nephews that mourn his passing as he was known as “Funcle” Jerry. Jerry is also survived by his beloved Pomeranian, Oscar, who traveled thousands of miles with his owner. The two were not often separated.

As per his wishes, Jerry will be cremated, and a Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date. This is a fitting remembrance of a  man who ended every conversation with “Life is Good.” Memorials may be designated to Buhler High School or the ASPCA, through Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS  67501.