Gerard “Gerry” Anthony DeHaan, 92, of Thief River Falls, MN, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at Villa St. Vincent in Crookston, MN, surrounded by his loving family.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church in Thief River Falls, MN with Father Dave Super officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial will be held at a later date at St. Bernard’s Catholic Cemetery in Thief River Falls, MN.
Military honors will be provided by American Legion Post 117, VFW Post 2793 and Minnesota Army National Guard Honor Guard.
Born on April 29, 1933, in Chinook, Montana, Gerry was the sixth of ten children of Dutch immigrants John and Gertrude (Perrin) DeHaan, who came to the United States in 1925. The family settled in Red Lake Falls, MN, in 1934, where Gerry spent much of his early life.
In 1954, Gerry proudly served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Paris, France, until his honorable discharge in 1956. Upon returning home, he worked various jobs in Red Lake Falls before moving to Thief River Falls in 1970. There, he served Pennington County as an assessor until his retirement in 1995.
Gerry was deeply committed to his faith and community. He served on the board committee of St. Bernard’s Catholic Church and lovingly cared for St. Bernard’s Cemetery for over 50 years—a testament to his dedication and quiet generosity.
From his first marriage to Betty (Everding) DeHaan, Gerry was blessed with two children, Debra and Michael, and four grandchildren: Madison, Callie, Michael Jr., and Alishia.
In 2017, he found love again and married MaryAnn “Pinky” Kosaka. Together, they enjoyed spending time together, shared joyful travels—including a memorable trip to Japan—and a shared passion for gardening and flowers. Gerry was known for his helpful spirit, kind heart, and unwavering support for those around him.
He is survived by his beloved wife, MaryAnn “Pinky”; his children, Debra (Jerry) Breiland of Bozeman, MT and Michael (Alona) DeHaan of Thief River Falls, MN; grandchildren, Madison, Callie, Michael Jr., and Alishia; sister, Elaine “Sis” Boucher of Crookston; and many cherished relatives and friends.
Gerry was preceded in death by his parents, John and Gertrude; and his first wife, Betty; siblings Martin, Catherine, Anthony, Margaret, Joseph, John, Jacob, and infant brother Robert.