Obituary for Jerry Dean Woods

Jerry Dean Woods, 91, of Hampton, IA, passed away peacefully at Franklin General Hospital on January 12, 2026. He was a cherished husband, father, and grandfather, and his presence will be deeply missed.

Jerry was born in Hampton, IA, on November 23, 1934, to Leo and Alma (Morgan) Woods. He served in the Army from 1956-1958 at Fort Huachuca, AZ. He married his loving wife, Louise (Steenhard) on August 30th, 1969. He dedicated his life to his family and his passion for riding his many motorcycles throughout the years with Louise and his son Mike. Their favorite destination was the annual Sturgis motorcycle rally and the Black Hills of SD, but really anywhere on a beautiful day. Jerry was a hard worker and worked at several places selling auto parts. He was very proud for earning the district award of Outstanding Part Sales in 1959 at the Ladwig's Chevrolet garage. He also worked for many years at United Hydraulics and Davie's Manufacturing.

Jerry is survived by his wife Louise; son Mike (Janelle) Woods of Burnsville, MN; grandson Brandon (Emma) Woods of Prior Lake, MN; granddaughter Lauren (Brandon) Lee of Viroqua, WI; and great granddaughter Lee expected in April; sister Donna Pralle of Clear Lake, IA; brother Jim (Dee) Woods of Scottsdale, AZ; sisters-in- law JoAnn Runing of Pine City, MN, and Linda (Francis) Brass of Dows, IA; and many nieces and nephew.

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Alma Woods; sister Kay Uhlenhopp; and brothers-in-law Floyd Pralle and Bob Uhlenhopp.

Thank you to all the staff at Franklin General Hospital for their kindness, support and care during Jerry's journey home.

Private burial will be held at a later date at Iowa Veteran's Cemetery, Adel, Iowa.