Obituary of Jerry Wayne Slater

Jerry Wayne Slater

3/7/45 - 4/16/24

Jerry Wayne Slater was born March 7, 1945 in Minneapolis, MN to Ray and June (Johnson) Slater.  He passed away on April 16, 2024 after an 11-year battle with cancer. He was a graduate of Bloomington High School class of 1963 and enjoyed a 38-year career at Carter Day International where he met lifelong friends and golfing buddies.

In 1993, Jerry married Karen and their two families merged in the most perfect way.  Over time, their family grew to include in-laws, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Jerry could not have been happier.  He loved the little ones because they were sweet and funny and (mostly) quiet. He supported the older ones with their interests in baseball, basketball, volleyball, football, golf and horses. Jerry loved engaging  conversations, enjoying a lowball of Buttershot while sitting around the kitchen table, sharing wisdom and mocking the hysteria of the moment.  Known for his strong opinions, quick wit and sarcasm – he was the stable voice of reason, and his family meant the world to him.

Jerry was a member of the Hidden Haven Golf Course in East Bethel, MN. Despite the obstacles he faced, his love for golf and camaraderie among friends motivated him to persevere as his body began to fail.  Even after he could no longer play, Jerry continued to visit the Hidden Haven clubhouse where he found comfort in the familiar surroundings and the support of his fellow friends and golfers.

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Doran Slater, his sister and brother-in-law Carol and Dale Buettner and his father-in-law, Ernie Ridens.

Jerry is survived by his wife Karen and daughter Shan (Lyle) Fellenz. Also survived by bonus children: Jason Paxton, Rebecca (Luke) Emmerich; Grandchildren: Alaina (Sid) Rotering, Drew Fellenz, Masin, William, James and Lilly Paxton, Brianne and Joshua Emmerich; Great grandchildren: Maeve and Holland Fellenz and Tyler Rotering; Sister: Linda (Rick) Breyette; In-laws: Rachel Ridens, Jim Ridens (Kim Sorenson) and Sarah Ridens (Rodd Johnson) and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, June 8^th in the Hidden Haven Banquet Room from 3:00 to 8:00 with a brief memorial service at 4:00.