Gerard R. Zlotkowski

Gerard R. Zlotkowski, age 54, of Aberdeen, SD, passed away on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at a local hospital. A celebration of life will take place at a later date in Aberdeen, SD as well as in New York.

Gerry was born on April 1, 1970, in Canada and was adopted by his loving parents, Robert and Betty (Kouril) Zlotkowski in New York. Gerry graduated Ward Melville High school of Setauket, New York in 1988. He went on to receive a Bachelor’s degree in mortuary science from Farmingdale State College in 1993 and worked at several funeral homes on Long Island. Gerry had a love of learning that lead to him going back to school at multiple points in his life. Gerry was a firm believer in never letting age stop you from learning and bettering yourself.

Gerry also worked as a devoted fireman, dispatcher and rescue EMT for several fire departments on Long Island including West Sayville, Nesconset, Smithtown and Setauket. Gerry loved helping out and being involved in his community. His love of law enforcement brought him to Ashley, North Dakota to become an Assistant Deputy Sheriff. Gerry was the kind of person who always held out a helping hand for anyone who needed it. Gerry was a hero to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. He was always available if you needed a hand or a shoulder to lean on.  After a few years Gerry went on to a career as a conductor and engineer with BNSF Railways based out of Aberdeen, South Dakota where he worked until his passing. He was proud to serve the SMART-TD local 233 Railroad Union as a past President as well as a Secretary and Treasurer up until his passing.

On October 5, 2006, Gerry's world changed greatly with the birth of his son, Gunner Zlotkowski. Gerry and Gunner would enjoy going out hunting together. Gerry passed onto Gunner his love of firearms and together they made many memories. Together they would go practice at the shooting range together as a fun activity. Gerry loved his son greatly and spent time with him whenever he could.

Gerry was an avid outdoors man and loved spending his time hunting and at the gun range. Gerry’s passion for firearms allowed him to become the owner and founder of Dakota Defense in Aberdeen, South Dakota. 

Gerry is survived by his son, Gunner; sister, Susan Brocato; and numerous family and friends.

Gerry is preceded in death by his beloved parents.

Arrangements by Crawford-Osthus Funeral Chapel www.crawfordosthus.com Watertown and Hayti

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