Jerry J. Thorius

Jerry J. Thorius

Amana

Jerry J. Thorius, 76, Colonel (RET) USAF, of Amana, Iowa, passed away Friday May 26, 2023. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 31, at First Presbyterian Church in Iowa City. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to Tunnels to Towers (t2t.org) or First Presbyterian Church of Iowa City. Kloster Funeral Home, Marengo, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Jerry was born in Primghar, Iowa, to Donald and Norma Thorius on Oct. 28, 1946. Jerry married Maeleen Tompkins in 1968 at the First Presbyterian Church in Marengo, Iowa. He graduated from the University of Iowa in 1969 with a degree in chemical engineering. Upon graduation, Jerry was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force. Jerry graduated from pilot training in 1970 and was selected for fighter aircraft. He spent his career flying fighters and doing the associated staff assignments that went with fighter aircraft. As part of their Air Force career, Jerry and Maeleen spent time in Germany as well as numerous assignments in stateside locations. The highlight of Jerry’s flying career was being selected to command the famous 555th Tactical Fighter Squadron. Among his numerous military awards, he was awarded the Legion of Merit with Oak Leaf Cluster and the Defense Meritorious Service medal. Jerry and Maeleen made many friends with whom they maintained contact long after retirement. Upon retirement from the Air Force, Jerry worked for TRW and for CollaborX consulting on activities associated with DOD. Jerry very much enjoyed his granddaughters, especially during his retirement years.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Maeleen; his daughter, Lara (Andrew) of Iowa City; his son, John (Kathleen) of Cave Creek, Ariz.; his granddaughters, Alex, Rachel Marsh and Mae Thorius; his brother, Jim and wife Julia; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; his grandparents, John and Rose Thorius; and John and Tena Rickers; and numerous friends from the flying community.

Online condolences: www.klosterfuneralhome.com.