Jerome Edward Schomer, 74

It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Jerome Edward Schomer of Dalton Gardens, Idaho, who entered Heaven on April 22, 2016, at age 74. Jerry was born in Pierre, S.D., on Jan. 29, 1942. He was raised on his family’s farm in Pierre and started his adult life by serving his country in the Army National Guard at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., from 1957-1961. He then set down roots in Southern California, earning his Associate of Arts degree in industrial technology from Fullerton Junior College in June 1965. On May 31, 1980, Jerry married his California sweetheart Karen and they made their home in Anaheim, Calif.

On May 31, 2016, Jerry and Karen would have celebrated 36 years of marriage. Always eager to learn more, Jerry studied Supervision at Coastline Community College in Costa Mesa, Calif. He received another A.A. degree in 1985. He was a man of strong faith. He worked full time and shared his love of God, country music, gardening, boating and water skiing, going to garage sales and kitty cats with friends and family.

In May 1999, Jerry was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer. Jerry battled his difficult disease for 17 years with the same integrity, courage and gusto that he demonstrated in every aspect of his life. In June 2010, Jerry retired. He and Karen moved to their retirement home in Dalton Gardens to be near his sisters, Shirley and Joni. Despite his constant battle with prostate cancer, the families enjoyed boating, collecting “treasures,” barbecues and sharing fruits and veggies from his bountiful gardens. Jerry had a sharp wit, a keen mind, and loved playing card and board games. He will be truly missed and we love him dearly.

He is survived by his wife, Karen; sisters Shirley (Paul) Yegge of St. Maries, Idaho, Dianne (Larry) Howard of Pierre and Joni (August) Schomer-Mack of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho; and brothers Bob (JoAnn) of Everett, Wash., and Doug Schomer of Pierre; 14 nieces and nephews; and 21 great-nieces and nephews; and many more extended family.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Joseph and Marie Schomer; and his brother, Richard Schomer.

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal. Love leaves a memory no one can steal.

Memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 30, 2016, at St. Pius X Catholic Church.

Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Jerry’s online memorial and sign his guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.