Dr. Jerry Earl Knipfel, age 82, of Swift Current, SK departed for one final road trip on April 11, 2024.

Jerry is survived by his patient and accepting wife of 57 years, Verna Lynne, whose loving care for Jerry never waivered. He met VL when she fell off a sleigh at a U of S Ag/Home Ec party. Ever the gallant gentleman he leapt to her rescue and proceeded to take her dancing weekly. Mom says his most endearing quality was his dancing ability. He loved music and right up to the end was dancing in his wheelchair.

Jerry graduated from SCCI, where he was inspired to pursue his lifelong love of learning and science. He obtained his Ph.D. in Ruminant Nutrition from McGill University, while working full time in Ottawa.

In 1973 he moved his family back home to Swift Current and was a scientist at the Ag Canada Research Station until his retirement.

Jerry had a brilliant mind which was enhanced by his bathroom reading material – the full set of Merit Student Encyclopedias which were rotated through the bathroom drawers regularly.

Jerry’s work ethic is legendary and one of his most admirable traits. The only thing that tempted him away from work was the opportunity to visit over a coffee.

He was a natural conversationalist and enjoyed having a chat with anyone about anything.

Jerry loved his years of coaching hockey, and he treated every one of his players like they were his own kids. His van was like the team bus, chugging down countless miles of highway with smoke billowing out the windows. Team play, work ethic and heart were his core coaching values.

In later years when Merivale Nursery employed numerous young people, Jerry was more than just the boss. He wanted to teach them about landscaping and about life.

He was very involved in our community, contributing years with Minor Hockey and the RM Council.

Bird hunting was a lifelong passion. In later years he spent many fall seasons spotting for a local outfitter. Even when his vision failed, he still wanted to go spotting.

Jerry had a huge soft spot for his dogs. They loved him too and were always glued to his side.

Jerry leaves behind a big legacy. This includes his kids and grandkids following in his footsteps and Merivale which visitors call the Butchart gardens of Saskatchewan. Nothing gave Jerry more pleasure than touring guests around his life’s work. He mowed the lawn by memory after his vision failed, only occasionally “touching” a sprinkler (or two). He never tired of mowing the lawns of Merivale, earning him the nickname “The Lawn Ranger.”

Jerry had an extensive list of health issues in the latter part of his life and was determined to carry on as long as he could remain at home. He had the strength to meet every challenge with courage and a smile on his face.

When faced with end-of-life planning, he maintained his sense of humour. Dad delighted in shocking his family with his suggestions that were always followed by his mischievous grin and a good laugh.

Jerry will be dearly missed by his family and many friends, including the beautiful renal nurses and the healthcare team who were his beloved second family.

A celebration of Jerry’s life will take place this summer.