Chester (Chet) Carroll Gerry passed away on August 15, 2021. He was born in Rapid City, South Dakota on March 1, 1955, and attended school in North Rapid. Chet was a member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. He was an accomplished athlete participating in basketball and football as a Rapid City Central High School Cobbler.

After graduating from high school, Chet owned a painting business for a brief period of time before moving to Phoenix, Arizona to pursue a federal government career as a cook in the Indian Health Service / National Institute of Health (NIH) program serving Native Americans with diabetes. He had a great career as a cook and his cooking skills were enjoyed by many Native American patients who were meeting the challenges of their illness. He was a cook at the Phoenix Indian Medical Center for 22 years and was planning to retire at the time of his passing.

Chet’s sense of humor and hospitality were always a welcomed invitation to many friendships he had over the years. He treasured his childhood friendships and was always open to new ones as he journeyed through life. His storytelling and loving kindness were felt by all those who had an opportunity to be in his presence. His sons, Lee and Travis; daughters, Paige (deceased) and Danita; and grandkids, Michael, Isiah, Lily, Sophia, Leo, Opal, Buckley, and Edith were very special to him. He was looking forward to moving back to South Dakota upon retirement.

Chet will be missed by many in South Dakota and Arizona. His infectious laugh, loyalty to friends, his sacrifice to assure family members and others were treated with respect will be in stories that will be shared, and we will reflect with a smile and great appreciation for being part of his life. He was a selfless son, man, father, grandfather, provider and protector.

He leaves behind one son, Lee Gerry; two stepchildren, Travis and Danita; grandchildren, Michael, Isiah, Lily, Sophia, Leonardo, Opal, Buckley and Edith; siblings, Rich Gerry, Albert Gerry, GeorgJean Gerry, Evelyn Rose Manuel, Bridgette White, Patrick Rodgers, Misty Rodgers and many nephews, nieces and cousins.

Those family members who preceded him in death were his daughter, Paige Gerry, and his parents, Richard Gerry, Sr. and Clarrissia Tobias.

Funeral service starting at 10 am, will be held at Behrens Wilson Funeral Home and interment will be at Pine Lawn Memorial Park on August 28th, 2021, with a reception at Eagles following immediately. All who knew him are welcome to share stories, cry, laugh and remember this great man.