Jerry Jochims Burlington,Iowa Obituary –February 16, 2026
Dr. Jerry LeVerne Jochims, 83, of West Burlington, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2026. Born in Holstein, Iowa in 1942, his journey was one of profound service, family dedication, and community leadership.
A proud Naval Flight Surgeon who served with distinction, Jerry answered a higher call to heal his hometown region. In 1975, he founded Southeast Iowa’s first orthopedic practice, Orthopaedic & Reconstructive Surgery Associates, P.C., serving patients for nearly 40 years. His medical legacy is inseparable from the health of the community he loved.
Jerry’s energy was boundless. A true civic ambassador, he lent his expertise to countless boards, from the Burlington Chamber to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. He was a dedicated choir member at First United Methodist Church, a passionate supporter of local sports, and a recipient of numerous honors for his service.
Yet, his greatest joy was family. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Debbie; his four sons, Jeff, Chris, Greg, and Mike; stepchildren Jeffrey Phillips and Melissa Johnston; seventeen grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and brother Jeff. He cherished time coaching, hunting at New Crystal Lake Club, raising elk in retirement, and traveling the world with Debbie.
A visitation will be held February 20 at First United Methodist Church, with funeral services on February 21. Memorials may be made to the SCC Foundation or the church. Jerry Jochims’ life was a testament to devotion—to his country, his patients, his city, and his family. He will be deeply missed.
