Gerald L. Schanink

Gerald Lee "Jerry" Schanink, age 73 of Cannon Falls, died at his home on Saturday evening, January 31, 2026.

Jerry was born on October 1, 1952 in Madison, South Dakota, the son of Robert and Mavis (Rogers) Schanink. He graduated from Randolph High School in 1971 and went on to serve with the US Army during Vietnam. Upon his honorable discharge in 1974, he returned to work as a carpenter. Jerry started his carpentry and construction career in his early teens, as he worked with his father on building homes on the north end of Lake Byllesby. He worked with Northfield Construction from 1980-2000, and went on to River City Builders in Nerstrand where he was lead project manager. After retiring, he worked at MN Wood Craft in Cannon Falls until his health declined this past year.

Jerry loved the outdoors, and found his happy place around Lake Byllesby while fishing, hunting, and enjoying the lake! He had even swam across Lake Byllesby! He enjoyed spending time with his friends and neighbors, and shared many conversations around the fire pit. Above all, he treasured his time with his children and grandchildren. They were his pride and joy!

Jerry was a member of River of Life Church in Hastings, and was also involved for many years with Mid Continent Gun Club in Welch.

He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Jeanne; daughter, Geraldine (Kent) Geiken; dear niece, Raelynn Swentik; grandchildren, Megan (Brandon) Breithaupt, Mitchell Geiken, Joshua (Johanna) Geiken, and Melissa Feyereisn (Josh Ferch); great-grandchildren, Tate, Sophie, Eric, David, and Zane; siblings, Janice (David) Winnes and Danny (Cindy) Schanink; and many nieces, nephews, and in-laws.

He was preceded in death by daughter, Mary Ketchum; parents, Robert and Mavis Schanink; and parents-in-law, Peter and Cloydene Swentik.

The family will host a Celebration of Life Service on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 11:00 am, with visitation from 9:00 am - 11:00 am, at River of Life Church, 800 Vermillion St., Hastings. If you would like to watch the recording of the service, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/live/Tn83-h-jP3c?si=ZCm9GhrLs4mHclhn

A private family interment will be held in the spring at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Preston, MN.