Gerald R. "Jerry" Limke, 84, died Tuesday, October 14, 2014 at Mercy Hospice in Johnston. Funeral services will be 10:30 am, Friday, October 17, 2014 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. A private family burial will occur at a later date.

Jerry was the third of nine children born to Leon and Alberta (John) Limke, born on 9-18-30 in Des Moines. After graduating from Des Moines Technical High School, he entered the Army Air Force which became the U.S. Air Force. He served as a Fire Chief within his four years in the service. After completing his military service, he tried to join the DM Fire Department, but he was one inch too tall. He then joined the Des Moines Police Department, where he was a patrolman and was later promoted to Sergeant. He worked in the Identification Bureau and was head of the Crime Lab. He retired in 1990, after 38 years of service on the force. In retirement, he loved to fish, hunt mushrooms, and travel.

He is survived by his loving wife, Marilyn (Peterson) Limke. They would have celebrated 62 years of marriage in November. He is survived by five children: Susan (Hugh) Oler, Sheryl (Chris) Bakkie, Gerald II (Teresa), John (Amber) Limke, Kathy (Todd) Anderson, nine grandchildren and their spouses, and nine great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Nancy Fever, and two brothers, James Limke, Kenneth (Joan) Limke; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers, Lee, Thomas, and Daniel Limke, and his sisters Mary (Abel) Murillo, and Carole (Robert) Manders.

The family will receive friends from 5-7:00 pm, Thursday at Iles Westover Chapel. Memorials may be made to Holy Trinity Catholic Church or the American Cancer Society. On line condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com.