The funeral service for Gerald Lee Saar, 99, Jamestown, North Dakota, formerly Rogers, North Dakota, will be 11 am, Friday, January 10, 2025, at Faith Lutheran Church, Valley City, North Dakota. Visitation will be held one hour before the funeral service at the church. Gerald went to his heavenly home on Monday, January 6 at SMP Health – Ave Maria, Jamestown with his family by his side.
Gerald Lee Saar was born to R.B. and Florence (Aygarn) Saar on March 4th, 1925, by Casselton, North Dakota. His parents moved to a farm near Rogers, North Dakota when Gerald was a young boy.
Gerald was educated at Booth School in Edna Township, where he became the Barnes County spelling champion. After graduating from Rogers High School, he attended the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis. Gerald also attended the Agricultural College (NDSU), where he participated in ROTC. He later went to VCSU, where he became a charter member of the Hesperian Men’s Society. A class at VCSU seated him by alphabetical order next to Ardell Rumer. This match was made in Heaven!
Gerald had planned to become a lawyer, but the family farm called him home. He and Ardell were married on November 1st, 1951. They farmed near Rogers for many years, raising registered Hereford cattle, Chester White hogs, and various small grain crops.
Gerald was active in the oil industry for 62 years. He was a founding member of Uxbridge Oils, serving in offices including president and vice president.
He was very active in Bethel Lutheran Church, holding various positions over the years. Even after moving 35 miles away, he and Ardell made the drive to Rogers every Sunday that the weather permitted.
When he was ready to leave the farm, Gerald looked for a place to retire. Not finding what he was looking for, he became involved in the development and promotion of Centerpoint Condominiums in Jamestown. He and Ardell bought the first unit out of 24. They were soon featured on a billboard! The Condo Association later received the Jamestown Chamber of Commerce award for the beautification of their park area.
Gerald enjoyed a variety of hobbies in his lifetime including bowling and golfing. He loved music, especially Gaither Christian songs. Gerald especially loved his family. A highlight of every meal together was having “Grandpa” say a beautiful table grace. Gerald was known for his kindness and fair treatment of others. He was a peacemaker who set a wonderful example for his family.
He is survived by his wife, Ardell; daughter LuAnn (Bob) Tschaekofske; grandchildren Jared Reinisch, Jenessa Reinisch, Matt (Cassidy) Tschaekofske and Nicole (Andrew) Larson; seven step-great grandchildren; his sister Ruth McMillan and sister-in-law Mariana Rumer.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Florence and R.B. Saar, brothers-in-law Russell McMillan and Don Rumer.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Oliver-Nathan Funeral Chapel, Valley City. An online guest book is available at www.olivernathanchapel.com.