Jerry Leo Dosh, age 82, of Brainerd, passed away in Little Falls, Minnesota, on Monday, September 29, 2025.

Jerry was born on January 18, 1943, in Daggett Brook Township, Minnesota, to William and Viola (Monson) Dosh. He later married Barbara Kraklau, and together they shared a life filled with love and family for 61 years.

Jerry dedicated his career to roofing and was a proud member of the Roofers Union for nearly 60 years, joining in 1966 and remaining an active member throughout his life. He worked for Thelen Heating & Roofing for over 30 years and was known for his strong work ethic and loyalty. A lifelong resident of Crow Wing County, Jerry made deep roots in the community.

More than anything, Jerry loved people. A natural storyteller, he always had something up his sleeve to make others laugh or smile. He treasured his family, adored babies, and poured himself into being a hands-on dad and grandpa. Known for his love of overalls, he would tuck the little babies into the bib to carry them close, and as they grew older, he lovingly chased them around with his cane—always finding ways to make them laugh. Jerry enjoyed the outdoors—camping, hunting, farming, and ice fishing were among his greatest joys.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Barbara; six children, Suzanne (Craig) Ross, Jerry Jr. (Linda) Dosh, Jeanna (Gregg) LeBlanc, Nancy Dosh-Smith, David (Julie) Dosh, and Amy (Randy) Smieja; grandchildren, Alannah Valenta, Glen Dosh, Mathew Brill, Ryan Brill, Andrew Brill, Tanner Dosh and MacKenzie Dosh, Ethan Smieja, and Riley Smieja; four great-grandsons, William, Theodore, Jameson, and Spencer; siblings, Richard, John, and Dennis Dosh, and Dorothy Heinz; along with many other family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandson, Nathan Brill, and brothers, William Jr., Robert, James, and Wesley.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2025, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at Nelson-Doran Funeral Home in Brainerd. Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday, October 10, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at St. Mathias Catholic Church, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at St. Mathias Parish Cemetery, with a luncheon to follow.