Funeral services were held Monday, Sept. 12, in Delta, CO, for longtime onion grower Jerry Hines, who passed away Wednesday, Sept. 7, at Hope West Hospice in Grand Junction, CO.
Jerry was 82 years old. He is survived by his wife of 60 year, Sharon, and his beloved mother Verda Hines of Delta. He is also survived by his three sons, Brent (Regina) Hines of Delta; Cordell (Erin) Hines of Henryetta, OK; and Lance (Mindy) Hines of Southern Africa; as well as his sister LaDell (Ted) Britain of Delta; his brother Randy (Cheryl) Hines of Delta; and his 10 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
One of Colorado’s most respected members of the onion community, Jerry also leaves behind many, many friends and industry colleagues.
He was preceded in death by his father, George Penn Hines, and his two younger brothers, Larry and Kenny Hines.
Jerry Nelson Hines was born May 16, 1940, in Bertram County, TX to George Penn and Verda Virginia (Johnson) Hines and grew up in Delta, where he graduated from high school in 1958.
He continued his education at Mesa Junior College in Grand Junction, graduating in 1961. Jerry went on to the University of Wyoming and graduated in 1963 with a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education. He had received full ride wrestling scholarships to both colleges, distinguishing himself as an outstanding athlete and earning the title of two-time NJCAA wrestling champion. He was also inducted into Colorado Mesa University’s Hall of Honor.
Jerry married Sharon, the love of his life, on Sept. 2, 1962. Over a period of 60 years, the couple cultivated their love and the family it grew.
His obituary said, “Jerry was, among many things, a farmer and business owner. He was a respected member of his local community and beyond. He served on several boards, including the Farm Service Agency, National Onion Association, Colorado Co-op Exchange, and the Delta Co-op. He also served as a board member of Delta Rivers Church. Jerry was a pilot and enjoyed snowmobiling, spending time in the mountains, and collecting antique tractors. He was a family man and a devoted Christian who loved to study God’s Word.”
View the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www.taylorfuneralservice.com, and to send a memorial gift or flowers to the family of Jerry Nelson Hines, visit the site’s Sympathy Store. OnionBusiness shares in the loss of Jerry Hines and sends its most sincere condolences to his family.
