Jeff Ersland, 64, of Evansdale, IA, died as a result of an accident at his home on Tuesday, October 2, 2018.

Jeffrey Allan Ersland was born January 17, 1954, in Waterloo, IA, the son of Gerald G. and Maxine G. Baish Ersland. Jeff graduated from Waterloo East High School in 1972. He married Cheryl “Sherry” Elaine May on May 21, 1977, at First Presbyterian Church in Waterloo. He worked for John Deere for 32 years in various departments from the foundry to skill trades where he worked until his retirement in 2004.

Jeff was a member of First Presbyterian Church and the UAW Local #838 where he had served on the Board, the Agricultural Implement Council, and was a union steward for over 20 years. He also served on the volunteer fire department at John Deere.

Jeff was a wild and free spirit. He was a Harley Davidson enthusiast and started riding motorcycles when he was 14. He was considered by some to be a Harley encyclopedia, often times trying to explain the origin of different engine parts to anyone willing to listen. His motorcycle was a member of the family. Jeff and Sherry attended the Sturgis Rally many times and often traveled to Colorado.

Jeff had a tough exterior and was a real man’s man. He was a body builder and enjoyed lifting weights, ultimately trying out for Mr. Iowa. He also spent a lot of time tinkering in the garage, either on his motorcycle or other projects that he came across. On the inside, though, Jeff was a softy. He loved to talk to people. Most importantly, Jeff loved to spend time with his family. Telling stories to his grandchildren was special time for him and for them.

He is survived by his wife, Sherry of Evansdale; his three children: Tina (Brian Wink) Foster of Monticello, IA, Jacob (Katie Beckheyer) Ersland of San Francisco, CA, and Terra (Josh Schmidt) Ersland Schmidt of Delano, MN; three grandchildren: Holly Huss, Andrew Buck and Lincoln Schmidt; a brother, Gerald (Cindy) Ersland of Waterloo; a sister, Tammy (Pat) Hayes of Waterloo; and former son-in-law, Ken (Sara) Huss of Cedar Rapids, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents.