Jerome Van Hout Obituary

Jerome "Jerry" Van Hout, 89, of Milbank, SD, passed away on Monday, February 24, 2025, at Milbank Area Hospital - Avera Health in Milbank. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Milbank. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service on Thursday. Father Brian Eckrich will celebrate the Mass, and interment will be at St. Lawrence Catholic Cemetery.

Jerome “Jerry” Henry Van Hout was born on June 25, 1935, in Grant County, South Dakota, to August and Pearl (Smith) Van Hout. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Milbank, SD. Jerry attended Melrose #9 Country School through the eighth grade before working on the family farm. He later enlisted in the United States Army in 1955 and was honorably discharged in 1961. Determined to continue his education, he later earned his GED. Throughout his career, he worked for Annett Construction, later for John Maynes Tire Service, and Valley Queen Cheese Factory, where he drove milk truck and he dedicated 32 years of service, retiring on December 31, 1997. 

On April 12, 1958, Jerry married Joyce Barnes at St. Lawrence Catholic Church. The couple made their home in Milbank, where they raised their family. A devoted member of St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Jerry served as an usher for many years. He was also a lifetime member of the American Legion.

Jerry had a passion for traveling with Joyce and cherished his time with the Hardee’s coffee group. He enjoyed woodworking, playing softball in his younger years, and competing in horseshoes. He also loved hunting, fishing, and visiting the casino. Above all, Jerry adored his grandchildren, often taking them on special trips with Joyce. Known for his strong conservative values, great sense of humor, and deep love for his family, Jerry will be fondly remembered by those who knew and loved him.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Joyce Van Hout of Milbank, SD; Larry (Lisa) Van Hout of Alexandria, MN; Bob (Deb) Van Hout of Milbank, SD; Tim (Alvina) Van Hout of Sioux Falls, SD; Linda (Pat) Raffety of Milbank, SD; David (Barbara) Van Hout of Milbank, SD; and Wayne (Nancy) Van Hout of Milbank, SD; grandchildren: Katie (Greg) Ruiter of Rochester, MN; Tara (Dan) Timm of Lichfield, MN; April (Eric) Tomoson of Alberta, MN; Jennifer (Justin) Athey of Britton, SD; Keith (Erica Stattelman) Raffety of Ortonville, MN; Jessica (Avinesh) Chand of Sioux Falls, SD; Christopher (Chandra) Van Hout of Sioux Falls, SD; Kevin (Kristie) Van Hout of Milbank, SD; and Amber (Brandon) DeClercq of Fairmont, MN; 15 great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild. 

He was preceded in death by his parents: August and Pearl Van Hout; and eight siblings.