Jerry Raymond Nims, age 87, of Baraboo, passed away on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at the Sauk County Healthcare Center in Reedsburg.
Jerry was born to Donald and Dorothy (McGregor) Nims in Bellingham, WA, on March 24, 1938. He graduated high school and continued his education at Aurora College in Aurora, IL, where he obtained his Bachelor's Degree in Bible and Religion, and met the woman who became his wife. Jerry and Wanda (Keepers) were united in marriage on October 7, 1961 at the Advent Christian Church in Baraboo. Jerry served his country in the Army from 1962-1964 as an engineering instructor at Fort Sill in Oklahoma. He worked as an electrical engineer for Soiltest, Prairie Digital, and Converter Concepts for many years. Jerry enjoyed singing, drawing, photography, and taking walks in the forest, as well as designing, building, and fixing things of all kinds.
Jerry was a dependable and loving husband and friend. He was generous with his time, and could always be counted on for needs both great and small. He worked hard his entire life, providing a home for his family and allowing his wife to spend time with their children. He learned to love Wisconsin because he loved his wife even though his home state of Washington always remained dear to him. Through 63 years of marriage, Jerry and Wanda’s enjoyment of spending time together never dimmed, whether walking through their woods looking at birds, exploring the country and its variety of campgrounds, or solving crosswords together at the diner.
Jerry had a brilliant mind for engineering and mechanics. There was nothing he couldn’t fix or make or figure out. He was adept and knowledgeable about all the practical things of life, as well as a few that were impractical.
Jerry loved the Lord and he loved the church. He wasn’t an out-spoken man, but when called upon to lead, he did so with dedication and integrity. He will be sorely missed.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Wanda; children, Cheryl Nims of Robbinsdale, MN, Camille (Jim) Lamoureux of Rancho Mirage, CA, Joshua (Yazmeen) Nims of Surprise, AZ; grandchildren, Riley, Sylvie, and Devin Cusick of New York, NY, brother, Larry (Barb) Nims of Everson, WA and other relatives and dear friends.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Heidi (Phil) Cusick; stepmother, Pauline Nims; brothers, Bill and Bob Nims and his sister, Suzanne Hackford.
Memorial Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, August 7, 2025 at New Life Community Advent Christian Church with Pastor Jesse Stevens officiating. Visitation will be held at the church on Thursday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will be held at a later date.
Debra Krueger Yngsdal August 04, 2025
Friend Sauk City , Wisconsin
Remembering Jerry from when I was growing up In the Advent Christian church in baraboo. Such a nice guy. You are all In my thoughts and prayers
Patricia Gudenschwager August 04, 2025
Friend Reedsburg , Wisconsin
Wanda, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Jerry was such a kind and giving person.
Betty krueger August 05, 2025
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
My prayers are with Wanda & loved ones. I'm so sorry to hear this. Know you're in my prayers.
Betty krueger August 05, 2025
Friend Baraboomb , Wisconsin
I'm so sorry to hear this. Wanda & I went to BHS n grew up in the old Advent Christian Church. She & Jerry were Heather's Godparents. Always enjoyed our chats. R I P Jerry
Daniel & Carol Keepers August 05, 2025
Nephew and wife Baraboo , Wisconsin
Jerry was an upstanding figure to us all. He brought a presence of God with him every where. He and Wanda were VERY DEAR to Daniel and I. Our first picture as well as our wedding photos were by Jerry. We will miss you! Our last conversation was a prayer. We look forward to seeing you in Heaven.I'm sure he heard WELL DONE, GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT!
Carol Garreans August 05, 2025
Friend Augusta , Georgia
Growing up Jerry and Wanda's family were great friends. Us kids were best friends. Wanda and everyone: my thoughts are with you.
Daniel & Carol Keepers August 05, 2025
Nephew and wife Baraboo , Wisconsin
Jerry was a fine figure of a man! He was there for MANY important instances in our lives. Our first picture as well as wedding photos were taken by Jerry. A love I shared with him. His influence on Daniel are some of the reasons I love him. My last conversation with him was a prayer. We will see you again in Heaven. I'm sure you heard WELL DONE MY GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT!
Patricia Sardeson August 05, 2025
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
Jerry will be missed by many and I am so sorry to you Wanda for this loss. I am happy to hear of your great memories as those and your joy in the Lord will help you going forward
Martha’s Fernandez August 05, 2025
Friend from church San Marcos , California
Jerry always had a smile and cheerful eyes. You just knew he was up for some fun! I know he will be sorely missed by all who knew him. I have a hard time believing he was 87! He never looked like he was aging. Wanda you and your family are in my thoughts as the Lord guides you through this difficult time.
David Baxter August 20, 2025
Friend of the family Renton , Washington
I am sorry to hear of Jerry's passing--my thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Michael August 24, 2025
Friend Prairie du Sac , Wisconsin
Saddened to hear this. Jerry was one of the nicest and friendliest persons I ever met. Loved playing softball with him. Rest in peace Jerry.
Janice K Mason (Campbell) September 01, 2025
Former neighbor Sauk City , Wisconsin
Nims family I’m so sorry to read of the loss of Jerry. Jerry and Wanda were such great neighbors when we lived across from them on Old 33. We know Jerry is now with our Lord but I know that doesn’t help with the hurt of missing him. Jan