Jerry Meyer

Gerald Burt Meyer, 82, of Minot, ND, passed away on Monday, August 18, 2014, in a Minot Hospital, following a lengthy battle with dementia.

“Jerry” was born June 1, 1932, in Rugby, ND, the son of William and Myrtle (Dokken) Meyer. He was married to Mavis Rytter on June 14, 1964, in Kenmare, ND. He and Mavis raised two daughters, Barbara and Laura.

“Coach Meyer” spent the majority of his teaching and coaching career in Jamestown, ND, at the high school and university. He enjoyed much success and received many accolades. Most recently Jamestown High School named the gymnasium the “Jerry Meyer Arena” and he was inducted into the North Dakota Sports Hall of Fame. Coach Meyer attributed his accomplishments to his supportive wife, top scouting companions and statisticians (his daughters), his mentor and friend, Dick Vinger, and the many loyal assistant coaches (from grade school on up) who embraced his basketball philosophies. In addition to basketball, Jerry taught his players important life lessons. He maintained long-lasting relationships with many of them.

Jerry was a decorated high school and college athlete who enjoyed playing softball, refereeing, golfing, bird hunting, and supporting the Boston Red Sox and Celtics. In his later years he liked spending time with his four grandchildren.

Jerry will be greatly missed by his family and friends including his loving wife of 50 years, Mavis; daughters, Barbara (Shane) Peterson, Williston; Laura (Bruce) Riggenberg, Castle Pines, CO; grandchildren, Demi and Zackary Peterson; Eddie and Sydney Quam; sister, Dorothy Miller, Minot; several nieces and nephews, and the family dog, “Larry Bird.”

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, brother, William Meyer and sisters, Joyce Scott and Dolores Vangsnes.

Visitation will be held Friday, August 22, from 3-7 p.m., at Thomas Family Funeral Home in Minot. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 23, at 11 a.m., at First Lutheran Church in Minot. A luncheon and sharing of stories celebrating his life will be held following the funeral.

In lieu of flower or plants, the family suggests memorials be designated to the athletic departments at Jamestown University or Minot State University.

An online guest book is available at www.thomasfamilyfuneralhome.com.