Jerry A. Barnholdt: Educator, Marine Veteran, and Burlington Resident

The Burlington community is mourning the loss of a longtime educator and veteran, Jerry A. Barnholdt, who passed away at the age of 91. According to a report from Vinton Today, Barnholdt died on Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026, while at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice in West Burlington.

Barnholdt’s life spanned nearly a century of significant American history, beginning in Central City, Nebraska, where he was born on June 8, 1935. He was the son of Albert and Florence Baker Barnholdt, and his journey eventually led him to a life defined by service to both his country and his students in Iowa.

A legacy in the classroom and on the field

For many in the region, Barnholdt will be remembered not just as a neighbor, but as a fixture of the local educational system. Over a 35-year teaching career, he shaped the academic lives of countless students, moving from the Wayland/Waco School District to the Burlington Community School District. His expertise was broad, covering History, Government, and Consumer Economics.

His influence extended beyond the lecture hall and onto the athletic fields. Barnholdt served as a coach for basketball, baseball, and golf, blending academic instruction with the discipline of competitive sports. This dual role as an educator and mentor allowed him to impact multiple generations of local families.

Before his career in education took root, Barnholdt served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1953 to 1956. This period of military service preceded his academic pursuits at Van Horne High School, Upper Iowa University, and Northeast Missouri State University, where he earned his Master’s Degree.

Personal connections and long-standing relationships remained central to his life. He married Mary Jo Parsons on July 16, 1960, in Waverly, and the couple shared 66 years of marriage.

Services and memorial arrangements

The family has scheduled visitation for Tuesday, Nov. 10, at Prugh Funeral Service, located at 3940 Division Street. Friends and community members may visit from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m., with a specific time for the family to receive guests between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.

Following the visitation, Jerry Barnholdt will be laid to rest during a private family graveside inurnment at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Burlington. Those wishing to honor his memory are encouraged to consider memorial contributions to the following organizations:

Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
Divine Mercy Catholic Parish

Barnholdt is survived by his wife, Mary Jo; his children, Mike (Yina) of Houston, Texas, and Jill (Rick) of Sedalia, Missouri; his brother, David, of Cedar Rapids; and a wide circle of extended family, friends, and former students. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Bill and Vic, his sister Joyce Wiese, and an infant daughter.

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