Jerome A. "Jerry" Fosheim

Jerome A. "Jerry" Fosheim, age 88 of Fairborn passed away August 13, 2026. He was born on April 7, 1938 in Oriska, North Dakota, the son of the late Arthur and Pauline (Loken) Fosheim.

In time, his family would grow, and he would be remembered as a beloved spouse to Marlene Merkes, whom he married on June 4, 1960, at First Lutheran Church in Fargo, North Dakota. Jerry and Marlene built a loving family together, including their children, Lisa (Loda) Moore of Westerville, Ohio and Rob (Ann) Fosheim of Chesterfield, Missouri; three grandchildren, Nick (Emily) Fosheim of Denver, Colorado, Kristin (Matt) Ornduff of Kansas City, Kansas, Allie Fosheim (Brad Johns) of New York City, New York; two great-grandchildren, Carter Ornduff, Kiera Fosheim; two sisters, Arleen Jarvis of Warner, South Dakota, Eunice (John) Bergstrand of Meridian, Idaho; as well as nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends-who carry his spirit with them.

Jerry began his education in a one-room school, completing eight years of elementary learning before graduating from Valley City High School in Valley City, North Dakota, in 1956. Jerry’s pursuit of knowledge and excellence led him to North Dakota State University, where he graduated in 1960 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering.

In his professional career, Jerry began work at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in 1960, contributing his skills in the Avionics Laboratory before transferring to the Aeronautical Systems Division. After 28 years of dedicated service, he took early retirement in 1988. His professional life did not end there; Jerry went on to work in real estate management in the Fairborn area, continuing to share his insight and leadership with the community.

Jerry also served his country in the Air National Guard for 26 years. His service began with the 119th Fighter Group in Fargo, North Dakota, and continued after he transferred to the 178th Tactical Fighter Group in Springfield, Ohio, in 1960. He served 10 months of active duty during the Berlin Crisis in 1961 and eventually attained the rank of Lt. Colonel, serving as Aerospace Maintenance Director before retiring from military service in 1982.

Throughout his life, Jerry invested his time and talents generously in his community. He served on the St. Mark's Lutheran Church Council and participated in numerous committees. His civic contributions included membership on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and the Fairborn Parks Foundation, as well as volunteering to videotape Fairborn City Council meetings and other city events. Jerry belonged to organizations such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the Society of Photographic Scientists and Engineers, the Remotely Piloted Vehicle Association, and the Greater Dayton Real Estate Investors Association. In later years, as a member of Peace Lutheran Church, Jerry served on several committees, videoed many services, weddings, and Vacation Bible School events and took immense pleasure from his friendships with the members of the K Group.

Jerry’s hobbies included golf, photography, travel, and woodworking, most especially enjoying time spent with his children and grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday August 18, 2026 at 1:00 pm at the Peace Lutheran Church, 3530 Dayton Xenia Rd, Beavercreek, Pastor Carey Hovland officiating. The family will receive friends from 11:30 am until the time of service. Following service, a reception of light refreshments will be held at the church. Burial will be at Dayton National Ceremony at a future date.

Arrangements in care of Belton-Stroup Funeral Home.