Gerritt H. Lourens

Gerritt H. “Gerry” Lourens, age 74 of Mitchellville, passed away on Sunday, June 2, 2024 at Bishop Drumm Care Center in Johnston. A memorial celebration of life will be held on Friday, July 19th at the Colfax Historical Society. The family will greet friends starting at 6:00pm and will have a small service consisting of a slideshow of Gerry’s life and a time of sharing. A meal will be served prior to the time of sharing, and all are welcome to attend. Memorials may be directed to The American Cancer Society and condolences may be left for the family at www.coburnfuneralhomes.com.

The son of Gerritt and Mabel (Coen) Lourens, Gerry was born on October 7, 1949 in Des Moines, Iowa. On June 9, 1990, he was united in marriage to Marcy Osborne in Des Moines. Gerry grew up on the family farm and knew from a young age that farming was his calling. His passion for farming began in the basement with his toy tractors, where he ‘farmed’ the entire basement. This childhood hobby grew into a lifelong dedication to the family farm where he created a beautiful life and lifestyle for his children and grandchildren.

Gerry loved his family more than anything and was incredibly proud of the blended family he and Marcy created. His grandkids always looked forward to his pancakes, which he “made with love”. Gerry cherished time spent at the Civic Center, attending concerts, time with friends, bowling, playing cards, enjoying the lake and boating, and looked forward to the next family gathering, sitting on the deck overlooking the Lourens Farm with everyone he loved.

Gerry took immense pride in maintaining his farm, keeping it well-manicured and ensuring his equipment was in immaculate condition, a testament to his hard work and dedication.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Marcy; children, Gerry Jr. (Chris) Lourens, Laurie (Matt) Chenoweth, Jess (Michelle) Osborne, Brian (Ashley) Osborne and Natalie (Jenna Darsee) Lourens; 13 grandchildren, Chelsey (Clayton), Colin (Kelsey), Colton, Braydon, Taylor, Alex(Mellissa), Emily, Addison, Henry, Emma, Cora, Caleb, and Isaac; 4 great grandchildren, Jeremy, Bradley, Charlie, and Hudson; father in law, Al Schornack; sister in law, Jan (Dave); brother in law, Kent (Nancy); and several nieces, nephews, and their children. Preceding Gerry in death were his parents, Gerritt and Mabel; brother, Arnold; sister, Jean; mother in law, Marilyn Schornack; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.