Jerry Gayle Sand, 85, passed away July 1, 2026 at the NCHS Care Center under the care of Hospice (HIA) leaving behind a legacy of hard work, devotion to family, and a life well lived.

Jerry was born December 17, 1940 in Buxton, ND to Peter J. and Olive (Foss) Sand and raised in rural Clifford, North Dakota, where he attended a one-room country school for his first three years before transitioning to the Clifford Public School. He graduated as the Salutatorian of the Clifford High School Class of 1958. Following high school, he proudly served in the National Guard.

Jerry attended college in Mayville, where he met the love of his life, Carol (Tandberg) Sand. They were married September 22, 1962 at the Sheyenne Lutheran Church and they remained faithful members of the church throughout their lives together.

In March 1963, Jerry and Carol made their home in Clifford, ND. The fall of 1964, the family moved an old schoolhouse to rural Pekin, ND on the Tandberg family farm. During those years, Jerry worked at the missile site in Nekoma while building a future for his family. In 1965, he purchased cattle and began the farming operation that became his life's work.

Jerry was deeply committed to his community and served on numerous local boards over the years. He believed in giving back and was always willing to lend his time and leadership. In 2001, he and Carol moved to McVille, but he never really retired. He continued helping on the farm for many years, happiest when there was work to do. After selling the cattle in 1999, he remained closely connected to the farm and the life he loved.

Jerry was known for always carrying his trusty lunchbox wherever the day's work took him. An avid outdoorsman from a young age, he hunted, fished, and trapped, enjoying to share these passions with his friends and family. He also enjoyed gardening and had a soft spot for dogs, making sure they always received a hidden treat, or two, when no one was looking.

Nothing was more important to Jerry than his family. He never missed a ball game, proudly supporting his children and grandchildren from the stands. Family gatherings were filled with laughter, especially when it came time for cards or games. Jerry had an uncanny knack for ending up with all the jokers, earning a reputation as the luckiest card player around. His grin always gave away what kind of hand he held, making him a less-than-convincing poker player. One of his favorite family traditions was playing "Hide the Thimble," a game that created treasured memories for generations.

When he wasn't working outdoors, Jerry could often be found cheering on the Minnesota Vikings and the Minnesota Twins, remaining a loyal fan through every season or working on a puzzle.

Jerry will be remembered for his quiet strength, unwavering work ethic, deep faith, generous heart, and steadfast love for his family. The lessons he taught through his example; hard work, humility, kindness, and dedication; will continue to live on in those who knew and loved him.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 63 years, Carol of McVille, ND; Children: Merle (Dore) Sand of Scottsdale, AZ, Mark (Jody) Sand of Steele, ND, Scott (Traci) Sand, Pekin, ND; Grandchildren: Justin Sand, Tyler (Brittany) Sand, Michael (Julianna) Sand, Mallory (Craig) Brown, Lindsey (Michael) Johnson, Ryan (Rebecca) Sand, Bradyn (Taylor) Sand, Hunter Sand; Great-Grandchildren: Peter, Riley, and Amy Sand; Boden and Ava Brown; Elle and Roonie Johnson; Logan, Brailee, and Bauer Sand; Cameron and Tate Sand; Sibling: Ervin (Bertha) Sand; Brother-in-law: Bennie Grandalen; Sisters-in-law: Darlene Sand, Shirley; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Peter and Olive Sand; Siblings: Marvin Sand, Delno Sand, Leon Sand, Patricia Grandalen, and twin sister Joanne (Ordell) Olstad; niece Amy Benoit and nephew Paul Tandberg.

Per Jerry’s wishes, memorials may be sent to Sheyenne Cemetery, Nelson County Health System Foundation, and HIA Hospice.

Visitation will be on Monday, July 6, 2026 from 5-6:30 P.M. with a prayer service at 6:30 P.M. at Sheyenne Lutheran Church, rural Pekin, ND.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. with visitation beginning at 10:00 A.M. at Sheyenne Lutheran Church, rural Pekin, ND.

Burial will be at the church cemetery.