Gerald E. "Jerry" Zarriello

Gerald (Jerry) Ernest Zarriello, 87, of Coon Rapids, Minnesota passed away peacefully with family by his side on Sunday, April 19, 2026.

Jerry was born on May 23,1938 in Chicago, Illinois. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the United States Army where after training he served 2 years as a Medic in Frankfurt, Germany. Jerry met his future wife while he served in the military. Jerry moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota to marry Dawn McIndoo on January 23, 1965. Jerry worked as a foreman at Ansari Abrasives, a grinding wheel manufacturer in Minneapolis. From there he became skilled at hanging and finishing drywall and was highly sought after for his attention to detail and quality of work. It was during this time that he saw the need for a tool that would improve the finishing of edges along textured ceilings. Jerry invented the Tri-Pad Sander and received a patent on May 24, 1994 from the United States Patent Office. An injury ended his construction career. For his next career move, he worked on staff for the Billy Graham Association as a Custodian until he retired. Jerry loved to share stories of having the privilege of meeting and talking with Billy Graham on several occasions. Jerry was committed to exercising at the YMCA with his wife on weekdays. He was active in church leadership roles as an elder, deacon, teacher, and visitation teams that met with individuals and families. He had a heart for sharing his faith and the message of the gospel with others. Throughout his life, Jerry remained a Chicago Cubs fan and loved any type of fried chicken, especially Kentucky Fried Chicken. He was also proud of his Italian heritage, and often prepared family recipes for homemade ravioli and Italian roast beef.

Jerry is survived by his children, Bob (Jill), and Carol; grandchildren, Tiffany and Chris. He is preceded in death by his parents, Vincent and Norma Zarriello, siblings Grace and Gene Zarriello, and Dawn, his wife of 61 years who recently passed on February 17, 2026.

A celebration of Jerry’s life will be held at a future date. This obituary will be updated when plans are finalized. Memorials received will be designated to Jerry’s favorite charities he supported during his life.