Jerry J Idt

Jerry J. Idt, 87 of Lincoln, formerly of Kearney passed away Friday, February 13, 2026 at his home surrounded by family. Jerry Idt passed away on February 13, 2026, leaving a legacy of warmth, music, and unwavering love for his family and friends. To know Jerry was to know kindness. And his ever-present smile. Born to William and Edith (Ehly) Idt on September 6, 1938 in Kearney, Nebraska, Jerry lived a life defined by simple joys and deep connections. Music was the soundtrack of his days. Growing up in Kearney he loved playing marbles and singing, and won competitions in both. Later, he sold Redman shoes and delivered telegrams for Western Union. This led to his first career after college as manager of Western Union. He met the love of his life, Lois E. Pedersen, and they married on May 29, 1960 at Faith United Methodist Church in Kearney. And Jerry smiled. Later that year Jerry was drafted into the Army and he served two years in Texas. During that time Jerry and Lois welcomed their first child, Nanette JoLynn, to their family. They moved back to Kearney after Jerry was honorably discharged, and soon thereafter Jay Anthony was born, completing their young family. And Jerry smiled. Then Jerry started his career as a salesman for Northwestern Public Service, a job he enjoyed and had for many years. And to nurture his love of music, Jerry joined two barbershop quartets – the Elkhorns, and the Shamrocks. Through barbershop Jerry shared his love of bringing the joy of music to others. Jerry’s joy was unmistakable- he smiled. The year 1986 brought the diagnosis of ataxia. A rare and potentially disabling disease called cerebellopontine atrophy. Jerry’s gentle spirit surfaced as he dealt with the many things that were affected … especially his ability to sing. In the face of all of this, Jerry smiled. He leaves behind a family who will forever carry his songs in their hearts and his smile in their memories: his wife Lois; sister Susie Melton; daughter Nanette (Mark) Gokie; son Jay (Susan Fisher) Idt; grandchildren Zach (Nichole) Gokie, Kylie Gokie, Cooper (Olivia) Idt, and Quinn Idt. Jerry took tremendous pride in his children and grandchildren and celebrated their accomplishments as if they were his own. In celebrating Jerry’s 87 years, we remember a man who taught us to treasure family, to turn up the music, and to greet the world with a smile. Heaven’s choir will welcome his baritone voice. A celebration of life will be held 1:00 p.m. Saturday, March 7, 2026 at O'Brien Straatmann Redinger Funeral Home in Kearney. Memorials are suggested to Faith United Methodist Church in Kearney, the Ataxia Foundation at www.ataxia.org or through Lois.

Jerry J Idt

September 6, 1938 - February 13, 2026