Gerrit Albert DenOtter, 105, of Clear Lake, formerly of Volga, passed peacefully on February 2, 2020, at the Good Samaritan Home of Deuel County. A private family service is planned for Saturday, February 8, 2020. Interment will take place at the First Lutheran Cemetery in Volga, South Dakota. Eidsness Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Gerrit was born December 21, 1914, to John and Annetta (Hillestad) DenOtter. He was baptized and confirmed at the First Lutheran Church, and attended Volga School. On October 21, 1941, he was united in marriage to Viola Granum. Just as they were about to celebrate their first anniversary, Gerrit was called to serve in the Pacific Theatre during WWII. He returned home from duty in 1945, and began work as an auto mechanic for Oines Implement. Several years later, he became shop foreman at Volga Coop and remained there until his retirement in 1980.

Gerrit was strong in his Christian faith, and happiest when he, often with Vi by his side, could use his talents in mechanics and carpentry to help others. In retirement, he served on the First Lutheran Church cemetery board, was a volunteer with Viola at the Brookings County Museum, and enjoyed woodworking and gardening. He loved visits with family and friends, and will be remembered for his quick wit and thoughtfulness.

In 2007, he and Viola moved to Clear Lake to live with their daughter and their family. When Viola entered Good Samaritan Home in Clear Lake in 2014, he chose to move with her and continue to watch over her. They celebrated 73 years of marriage, created a loving and happy home and were a beautiful example of true love and devotion.

Survivors include his daughter Paula (Evan) DesEnfants; daughter-in-law Carol DenOtter; grandchildren: Jason (Rhonda) DenOtter, Jeff (Lora) DenOtter, Kari DenOtter, Matt (Laura) DesEnfants, Adam (Katy) DesEnfants; and great-granddaughters: Stella DenOtter, Helen and Alice DesEnfants, and Amelia DesEnfants.

He was preceded in death by Viola; their son, Gary; and his brothers: Burt, Herbert, Milford, Clayton, and Gordon, who died in infancy.