Gerald Haugeberg Obituary

Gerald Duane Haugeberg ("Jerry"), a pillar of the Fairbanks community, passed away on Jan. 5, 2025, at the age of 79. Jerry is survived by the love of his life, Jill, with whom he shared 52 years of marriage; his children, Becky, Jon, Bill and Mindy; and brother, Bruce.

Jerry was born in 1945 in Minot, North Dakota, to Oliver and Emma Haugeberg. He was one of four brothers - LeRoy, Lyman, Jerry and Bruce - who remained close throughout their lives. After graduating high school, Jerry enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving from 1966 to 1969 as a linguist. In lieu of taking a reenlistment bonus for his exceptional service, Jerry chose to pursue higher education and leave his top-secret clearance behind.

Jerry proceeded to earn his bachelor's degree from Minot State University, where he met Jill, who he would marry in 1972 in Minot, North Dakota. Starting their lives together Jill and Jerry moved to Grand Forks, where Jerry continued his education at North Dakota State University. Then, in 1972, Jerry received an offer from a prestigious national accounting firm in Fairbanks, Alaska. Jill and Jerry embarked on a new chapter of their lives, and moved to Fairbanks, a place Jerry had always dreamed of calling home.

Jerry later became a partner in that firm, which went on to be known as Cook & Haugeberg, LLC. Over his long and successful CPA career, Jerry served countless clients while also freely dedicating significant time and expertise to the community. His deep commitment to stewardship and service earned him widespread admiration and respect throughout Fairbanks.

Jerry's life was defined by his unwavering belief in family, community, and service. He was a friend to all, offering support and kindness to anyone in need. In his later years, Jerry found immense joy in spending time with Jill, the love of his life, and his beloved grandchildren.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Jill; their children, Becky Heagerty (John), Jon Haugeberg (Lauren), Bill Haugeberg (Natalie) and Mindy Bush (Devin); grandchildren, Margaret (Becky and John), Riley and Jackson (Jon and Lauren), Duane (Bill and Natalie), and Sophia and Oliver (Mindy and Devin); brother, Bruce; as well as countless extended friends and family members.

A remembrance to honor Jerry's memory and his many contributions to the Fairbanks community will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 1, 2025, at the Elks Lodge.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to one of Jerry's favorite charities, The Salvation Army. Donations can be made online at tinyurl.com/yc6smb54 or by mailing checks to The Salvation Army, In Memory of Jerry Haugeberg, P.O. Box 70405, Fairbanks, AK 99701.

The family also welcomes thoughts and memories of Jerry, which can be sent to 2213 Bridgewater Dr., Fairbanks, AK 99709.