Jeffrey Stettnichs

Rock Rapids, IA

Jeffrey Stettnichs, age 77 of Rock Rapids, IA died unexpectedly on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at Avera Merrill Pioneer Hospital in Rock Rapids, IA.

A public visitation will be on Friday, February 27th from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, with the family present at Jurrens Funeral Home of Rock Rapids.

A memorial service will be 10:30 AM, Monday, March 2nd at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Rock Rapids, IA, with Pastor Drew Riter officiating.

Burial will follow at Riverview Cemetery in Rock Rapids, with full military honors by Van Anne-Fields Post No. 6960, VFW & Rex Strait Post No. 103, American Legion of Rock Rapids.

Jeffrey Lynn Stettnichs was born August 16, 1948, in Rock Rapids, IA, the son of Marvin F. and Margaret (Kracht) Stettnichs. He was raised in Rock Rapids and attended Central Lyon High School graduating in 1967. Jeff entered the U.S. Navy on March 1, 1968. He served his country in Vietnam and was honorably discharged on December 17, 1971, and returned home to Rock Rapids, IA.

Jeff was united in marriage to Viola Gertsma on March 17, 1978 in Rock Rapids. They were blessed with two children, Kristy and Jason.

Jeff worked many years for L.V.O. Manufacturing and retired in 2018 but returned shortly after where he worked part-time. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, riding motorcycles and attending his grandchildren’s events. Some of Jeff’s special memories include watching birds, recovering deer, taking trips with Elaine, vacationing at the lake with family, frog hunting at the river, his surprise 70th birthday party, fishing and playing games with the grandkids.

On March 30, 2014, Jeff’s wife of 36 years, Viola passed away.

This past Tuesday, February 24, 2026, Jeff died suddenly at Avera Merrill Pioneer Hospital in Rock Rapids, IA, at the age of 77 years. Left to cherish his memory are his two children, Kristy (Jon) May of Rock Rapids, IA and Jason (Jackie) Stettnichs of George, IA; seven grandchildren, Taeron, Ciara, Shelby, Hayden, Ana, Zayne and Elijah; and one great-grandchild on the way; dear companion, Elaine Russenberger; and brother, Rodney (Nan) Stettnichs of Sioux City, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Margaret Stettnichs; his wife, Viola Stettnichs; and a sister, Diane Anderson.