Jerae Emil Dufloth

Jerae DuFloth, born on August 30, 1947, in Bowdle, South Dakota, passed away on January 1, 2026, in Mesa, Arizona at the age of 78. His passing marks the end of a life defined by dedication- to his work, his country, his family, and the western way of life he so deeply cherished.

Jerae served in the United States Army from 1966 to 1968 during Vietnam era. As a medic stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, he carried out his duties with commitment. Though he was unable to serve overseas due to a minor medical issue, he often expressed a strong desire to have done so and was proud of his military service.

Jerae embarked on a working life that included varied experiences. However, it was his long tenure with the Town of Lovell’s sanitation department that left a lasting impression on those around him. Known for his conscientiousness and punctuality, Jerae took pride in his work. Upon his retirement, many customers remarked how much they missed reliable and thorough service.

Jerae married Marlene Werre in 1969 – a union that began with one small compromise: wearing dress shoes instead of cowboy boots for their wedding day. According to Marlene, it was the only time she ever saw him without his signature boots and hat. An Arizona neighbor once described his as “the most typical cowboy” they had ever met – a fitting tribute to a man whose identity was inseparable from the western outdoorsy lifestyle he loved. An avid outdoorsman, Jerae found joy and peace in hunting and fishing. These passions were more than hobbies; they were essential to who he was.

Jerae’s love for family ran deep. He is survived by his devoted wife Marlene; daughter Jill DuFloth; son-in-law Matt Widaman; grandchildren Jolie Widaman, Dax Widaman, Boone Widaman all of Snohomish, Washington; daughter-in-law Jessie DuFloth; and grandchildren Marlee DuFloth and Aiden Turpin of Okmulgee, Oklahoma. He was preceded in death by his son Jason DuFloth.

Though illness challenged him over the past five years, Jerae faced it with quiet strength. His family takes comfort in knowing that he is now free from suffering and reunited with loved ones gone before him.