Gerald Cox (Jerry), age 83, of Excelsior, MN passed away on August 2, 2023 after navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's Disease with family present during the final stages of his life and with the loving care of staff of Trouvaille Memory Care Suites and Grace Hospice. Jerry grew up on a farm in Fingal, North Dakota before moving to Minnesota. Jerry's gentle spirit and love for the outdoors were undeniable. He served youth and young adults as a canoe guide and wilderness instructor at Sommers Boy Scout Canoe Base and Outward Bound in MN. In addition to significant service in local, northwoods, and native communities, he also served with his wife, Lynn, as a guide for decades, for blind XC skiers, with the Ski for Light organization. His legacy is deeply tied into the natural world, and this passion lives on through his family, students, colleagues, friends, and faith community. Jerry graduated from Mankato State earning his master's degree and was a beloved middle and high school natural sciences teacher in Ohio and the Minnetonka School district. Jerry was a finalist for Minnesota Teacher of the Year. He was also the interim director of the Outdoor Education Center at Antioch College. Jerry's hobbies included being a master woodworker and an avid outdoor sportsman. He played multiple musical instruments and was a published natural science writer. Throughout all his service, personal and professional life, he treated all with compassion and kindness. He was preceded in death by his parents, Suel and Clarine Vee Cox, and his brothers Stanford Cox and Conrad Cox. Jerry was devoted to his family and is survived by his loving wife, Lynn, Cox, three sons: Kristoffer (Rebecca) Cox, Dana (Michelle) Cox, and Kai (Stephanie) Cox; brother, Duane Cox; 7 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren. A Celebration of Life service will be held at St Luke Presbyterian church on September 30th, 2023 at 2pm: 3121 Groveland School Road, Minnetonka, MN. In lieu of flowers, the family asks to please consider donations directed to Ski For Light, Inc, St Luke Presbyterian Church (Minnetonka, MN) or a charity of choice.
Huber Funeral & Cremation Services
Excelsior Chapel 952-474-9595