Jerry Richard Bliven

Jerry Richard Bliven, age 91, of Burnsville, Minnesota, passed away peacefully with family by his side on Saturday, June 6, 2026.

Jerry was born on October 29, 1934, to David and Bertha (Burge) Bliven in South Sioux City, Nebraska.

He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Sharon Lehmann, on February 28, 1956, and they soon began building their family. He was a dedicated husband and father, in his early years working multiple jobs to support his growing family and then building an impressive sales career in the food industry which involved multiple moves around the country with homes in Iowa, New York, California and Minnesota. After owning several donut shops in Iowa, they returned to Minnesota and settled in Burnsville for the past 46 years.

Jerry served in the National Guard in his younger years. He enjoyed being outdoors fishing, pheasant and duck hunting, golfing and was proud of achieving his private pilot's license. Fun family memories include his love of setting up Easter egg hunts for his grandchildren, making his famous 'taverns' for Christmas Eve meals and his special doo-dad snacks. He would drive for hours to get back home from work travel for his children's football games and events. In his later years he had fun working through Word Finds and watching the Polka Hour on cable. His faith grew strong over the years, and he spent time each day in prayer and reading his Portals of Prayer. He was loved by everyone he met for his friendly and joking manner. He made everyone he spent time with feel warm and valued. Family members did not leave the house without an "I love you" and "drive careful"!

Jerry is survived by his children, Julie Gustason, Jerry 'Dave' Bliven, Jane Sundin, and daughter-in-law Lisa Bliven; grandchildren Jennifer Gustason, Em Gustason, Erin (Steve) Towey, Andrew (Nicole) Bliven, Jared Sundin, Cameron (Lauren) Sundin and Jacob Bliven; great grandchildren Lucas, Wesley and Amelia Bliven, Hannah and Connor Towey. Jerry is preceded in death by his wife of over 68 years, Sharon Bliven; son Daniel Bliven; and parents David and Bertha Bliven.

Funeral service will be at 11 AM on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Holy Emmanuel Lutheran Church - 201 East 104th Street, Bloomington, Minnesota, with a visitation beginning at 10 AM. Interment will follow service at Pleasant View Memorial Garden, 200 Highway 13 W, Burnsville, Minnesota.