Gerald Albert Schmaltz

Gerald Albert Schmaltz, age 92, of Cumming, Iowa, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2025, just one day after his 92nd birthday.

Jerry was born a twin at home in Des Moines, Iowa, on July 27, 1933. He was one of four boys in the family. During his young adult life, he proudly served his country in the U.S. Army. He spent most of his professional life working for Allied Construction. On May 21, 1955, he married the love of his life, Jacqueline Sue Hampton. Together, they raised three children—Kirk, Jeffrey, and Rebecca—and shared 70 wonderful years of marriage.

The family made their home in Des Moines for many years before moving to the countryside near Cumming in 1989 where they built a home. Jerry loved life in the country—raising horses, celebrating family birthdays and holidays, and simply enjoying the peace and beauty of nature. He was a skilled woodworker who took pride in crafting pieces for their home and as treasured gifts for family.

In retirement, Jerry and Jackie traveled extensively, visiting places like Canada, Italy, France, the Panama Canal, and the Holy Land. Despite their travels, Jerry was always happiest at home on their land.

Jerry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jackie, who passed away on May 23, 2025. Also preceding him were his siblings: Roger and Bob. He is survived by his children: Kirk (Rhonda) Schmaltz of Ames, Jeff (Suzanne) Schmaltz of San Antonio, Texas, and Rebecca (Dean) Archer of Ankeny. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren: Steph Schmaltz, Katie (Jonathan) Ifergan, Andrew (Alana) Archer, Abby (Jason) Jones, Anna Archer, Allie (Samuel) Curran, Jeremy Schmaltz, and Julia Schmaltz; and five great-grandchildren: Aniston and Aubree Archer, Nellie Warwick, Nova Jones, and Charlie Curran. Jerry is also survived by his brother Gene and sister-in-law Roseanne Schmaltz, sister-in-law Janet Hampton, and many nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held at St. Anthony’s Church on Thursday, August 7th at 9:30 a.m., followed by a funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. A private burial with military honors will take place at 12:30 p.m. at the Iowa Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Van Meter.