Lawrence Frederick Jerome • (1949 - 2024)
Lawrence Frederick Jerome
The Story Of An Exemplary Man Who Made A Difference In The Lives Of Many
By MARY ELLA JEROME & SCOTT BENJAMIN
Dedicated to those who pursue their passions while living in service to others.
Forward:
In memory of my dear brother Lawrence (Larry) Jerome who lived a remarkable life!
Thank you to Arabian Horse Times and Scott Benjamin for this opportunity to share some of the many stories about Larry.
~ Mary Ella Jerome
AS OF FEBRUARY 1, 2024, Larry Jerome was the breeder of over 400 registered Arabians and Half-Arabians, influencing a vast majority of today’s winning pedigrees.
“Believe
in your own program and follow your dreams, but don’t be afraid to learn from others who have had success. Be humble and be respectful… you get a lot farther that way. We are stewards; we don’t own the land, we don’t own the animals, we are caretakers. God gives you these things for a while and expects them to be returned in equal or better shape once you get done. That’s how you live life. You need to enjoy the journey. That’s what a horse is all about, it’s a ride. That is its purpose. Ride your horse and enjoy your journey.”
~ Larry
Khaja J
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Roots
Lawrence Frederick Jerome was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota on May 3, 1949, to Wallace and Marion (Estenson) Jerome, the second oldest son of five children. He had three younger sisters.
Both of Larry’s parents were very influential in his life. In one of many speeches, he talked about his passion for family: “It has always been my belief that family is first and foremost in each of my endeavors. At an early age, the importance of this was impressed upon me by my parents. Life is a ‘genetic adventure’. Like begets like. It is a simple statement and is often applied by parents who screen the friends with whom their children associate!”
Genetics indeed played a significant role throughout Larry’s life—in family and vocation—and it is his father Wallace from whom he inherited his incredible ability to appreciate the quality inherent in all animals regardless of species or breed. A mentor to Larry in this area, Wallace fostered his son’s natural talents and unbridled enthusiasm by schooling Larry on the “art and science” of husbandry, pedigrees, and mate selection. Wallace was a role model for being passionate about what one loves to do in life. Instrumental in providing many of the animals for a young Larry’s care, he learned to follow his dreams and trust in his beliefs but remain humble and not afraid to learn from others.
From his mother, Marion, Larry learned about being loving and caring, having compassion, and showing forgiveness. Marion was an amazing “people person”. She had remarkable insight into people and was very close to and supportive of Larry, becoming his confidante.
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A Journey in Animal Husbandry
Encouraged by his parents to pursue his passion for animals, Larry dragged home to nurture everything from pollywogs and butterflies to kittens and puppies. His earliest experimentation with genetic improvement was with waltzing mice in his mother’s basement.
At the age of 8, Larry got his first horse, Duke.
At age 9, his parents allowed him to get a Holstein calf, so he could show it at the fair, but Larry had to give up that calf when she was a springing heifer and would begin to make dairy. This did not sit well with Larry. Not one to take no for an answer, he rode his bike to his Uncle Willis to convince him to let him bring his cow to him to let her have a calf. She indeed had a heifer calf on January 31st, and the next year she had another heifer calf, and the next year she
had another heifer calf, so by that time, the oldest heifer calf was having heifer calves! So, in addition to being a substitute milker for two neighbors, with the acquisition of a few more cows, Larry started milking an 11-cow herd of registered Holsteins at the age of 15 in an old hog house, the foundation from which Jerland Farms’ world renowned and record-shattering dairy operation would flourish.
When Larry was 12 years old, his mother received a phone call from the manager of the turkey hatchery (part of his father’s business). The story was that one of the turkey farmers who sent turkey eggs to the hatchery had slipped a duck egg into the tray of turkey eggs as a joke. The hatchery manager wanted to know whether Larry could have the duck, which just so happened to
Larry & his first foal, Duke
hatch! So as not to have a lonesome duck, the manager wanted to send a turkey along. Larry’s mother agreed which resulted in Larry’s excitement over his new Mallard duckling and bronze turkey poult.
Larry loved all aspects of school, learning, teaching and … having fun! If there was a play, program, or event, he was in it! He was active in the band and choir, FFA and character building 4-H, a vocation for which the aspiring young farmer had a natural and unrelenting aptitude. He served on the National 4-H Board, and later as a club leader and the Adult Leader’s Council.
He graduated from Barron Senior High School in 1967 and attended the UW-Barron County Campus for one year.
At age 19, Larry purchased the 160-acre farm located in the center of Barron County where he lived with his family the rest of his days. His mother Marion stated, “Jerland Farm started as a result of some 4-H projects that got out of hand for Larry!” She said two of his mentors filled his head with so much 4-H propaganda, that otherwise he would have been a normal boy! One of Larry’s sisters
commented that their mother had her hands full, trying to keep track of all of Larry’s projects and supervising him in his varied activities. Larry’s brother added that his grandparents were a great help, as Larry grew up to be a handsome Norwegian, musician, and farmer like his namesake Grandfather Laurance.
On July 18, 1970, Larry married Shelley Miller, “the most beautiful girl in Barron County”. For Larry, this was, indeed, “love at first sight”. The first time he saw her walking down the street, he knew he would marry her, and to his end of days, referred to his beautiful, loving bride as “perfection”, a true SAINT! Shelley was incredibly supportive of all of Larry’s ventures no matter how big or how
broad. Many times, she could be found providing meals or comfort to the various groups of visitors to Jerland annually. Together they raised seven children: Daria, Moriah, Jeremy, Alicia, Lyndon, Sacia, and Indira.
An intense and multi-faceted man, Larry’s animal world over the years grew to encompass more dairy and beef cows, hogs, sheep, fowl, horses, dogs, canaries and parakeets. His legacy of animals all carry a Jerland or “J” in their names.
That eye for genetics enabled Larry to be a successful visionary, passionate breeder and exhibitor of Holstein cattle, German Shepherds and Arabian horses. Through years of hard work and dedication, he became one of the most respected breeders in the world. Along the way, Larry developed a worldwide network of connections and friendships.
Dr. Steven Kelm, Chair of the Department of Animal and Food Science at the University of Wisconsin - River Falls wrote, “Larry Jerome was a skilled breeder of many different types of animals. I have worked with many individuals who have demonstrated skills in improving a particular kind of livestock or animal. Such skills include a mastery of not only the fundamental characteristics of a specie but also a true understanding of nuances involved,
the characteristics that others don’t see and understanding the relationship between these attributes. Such skills are developed over a lifetime. Extension of this mastery from one specie (such as cattle) to another specie that differs dramatically in form and purpose is rare. The ability to apply these skills to three different species such as the cow, the dog, and the horse is almost unheard of and speaks to the intellect, observation, and artistry of the individual. Without a doubt, Larry Jerome is a member of this elite group, and his work will be viewed with appreciation for decades.”
High school sweethearts Larry and Shelley pictured for prom (right), and married in 1970 (above).
Jerland Holsteins
Larry’s first heifer, Lucretia, whom he purchased at age 9 by saving several months’ worth of lunch money, was bought from Irvin Lichtenwalner. She was the origin of the Revelle cow family. He eventually would buy Irvin’s herd of 10 cows.
Later, Larry admired the Debras and had an opportunity to buy into this family at the Hilltop-Hanover dispersal, in 1991. There he acquired Deidre and Daisy. From them, he developed the only herd in the world at the time with 10 generations of 40,000 pounds lactation and each animal classifying Excellent at 90 or better. Larry developed beautiful individuals backed by deep pedigrees based on the strength of time-tested cow families. He was dedicated towards breeding elite Holsteins. He sought out and utilized the most successful maternal families, then carefully combined them with the very best sires available. Larry’s original dream was operating a large-scale dairy operation, however, he changed his ideas and decided to focus on genetic excellence. He was more interested in quality than in quantity of his cattle.
JERLAND HOLSTEIN DISPERSAL
In 2011, after 62 years in the Holstein world, Larry and Shelley officially retired from dairy cattle.
Jerland Farms developed 72 animals classified Excellent; 54 of these Excellents are home bred. Jerland Starlite Revelle was the foundation of their famous “R” family. Revelle has 31 Excellent and 51 Very Good progeny.
DAIRY BREAKFAST
In June 2009, Larry and Shelley Jerome hosted the Barron County Dairy Breakfast. They saw it as a way for their family to give something back to the agricultural industry, which had given them so many opportunities.
Larry viewed the breakfast as a social function. He saw it as a time for neighbors and friends to catch up and for his farm to show the attendees a basic, honest concept of rural America.
Larry knew that Jerland Farm was not an average dairy farm, and he was not a normal farmer. Some of the animals occupying the farm were there because of Larry’s interests and some were there due to the 4-H and FFA projects of his seven children.
When Larry bought into the Debra cow family, it was the first in the world with four generations of Excellent cows achieving 40,000-pounds-a-year milk records. Larry took that to the 10th generation, a feat unprecedented in the breed. Jerland Farms was the home of unique cows. No other herd in the world had accomplished this level of quality and productivity from generation to generation.
Larry sold cattle and embryos and developed some of the Holstein breed’s best-known cow families. He made trips to Europe in 2000 and 2002 with son-in-law Reid Stransky who judged their Holstein cattle shows.
He also discussed genetics with students in Barron Senior High School’s agricultural classes and worked with Dairy Judging Teams.
The shift in focus across the globe became more commercial-driven vs. “Generations of Excellent” production cows. The number of small family-farms decreased, and the amount of commercial dairy as displayed by milking parlors increased.
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Jerland Kennels
Larry’s philosophy behind the breeding at Jerland Kennels was to focus on the total dog by emphasizing three things in their shepherds: conformation, intelligence, and temperament.
Larry felt that a dog must be structurally sound; it made no difference how intelligent a dog may be if it suffered from physical faults, and the temperament of the animal was most important when considering its particular avenue of use.
Through Larry’s interview process with the potential owner, he matched each of these qualities with the dog’s new family. His dream and goal were to provide excellence to each client. He greatly enjoyed the selling process!
One such occasion arose when Larry was working for a veterinarian in Dresden, Germany, regarding cattle evaluation and selling embryos. An admirer of the Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde (SV), a breed club founded in Germany in 1899, Larry had the opportunity to visit some of the best dairy farms in Europe that also raised dogs. He was fortunate to create good relationships with people who had the best dogs. Jerland Kennels imported brood bitches, as well as their male stud dogs who were “titled” in Europe. Later, Larry sent his own male dogs to Europe to go through the rigorous training to become titled. These dogs returned to Wisconsin to serve as Jerland’s stud dogs. Larry and Jerland would eventually receive the 25th anniversary membership pin from Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde.
For 53 years, Jerland-bred dogs have been involved in everything from Search & Rescue and K-9 units to theatrical productions, movies, competitions (U.S. and abroad) in both conformation and obedience, and handicap assistance programs, but the vast majority are someone’s family pet.
Larry and Shelley were especially proud that Jerland-bred dogs were successful in search and rescue, as well as fantastic family dogs for children with special needs. Jerland also has dogs which work therapeutically with disabled veterans who suffer from physical limitations or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Some of the most gratifying have gone through the Mayo Clinic as “service dogs”. Larry and Shelley had many repeat customers over the years.
Jerland dogs are now found in all 50 states and over 30 foreign countries, their global impact spanning over eight generations of home-bred dogs.
German Shepherds, Jerland’s Vico (above) and Jerland’s Yago (left).
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Jerland Arabians
While young Larry’s ambitious efforts in the animal industry revolved around cattle, dogs and poultry, his fascination with horses led to the ownership of a Morgan mare, Princess, and her Quarter Horse foal, Duke, from whom Larry would learn his foundational lessons, the sum of which amounted to considerably more “don’ts” than “dos”. The acquisition of the curiously named Shetland Pony mare Horse Creek Rose Leaf would prove to be the gateway for Larry into the world of the Arabian horse, when he made the decision to book a service to the Arabian stallion Ambassador (Tsali x Imafara, by Imaraff), locally owned by Gib Ross, for his first Half-Arabian foal. “Rosey” would transition from teenage pet to family treasure over 33 years, living long enough to teach the oldest Jerome daughters how to ride.
The close proximity of Burton Arabian Farm in Rice Lake, Wisconsin, provided Larry exposure to some of the most wellrespected Arabians in the breed during the 1950s, 60s and 70s. Home to aristocrat dam Vadraff (Indraff x Invasia, by Valensik)
and sire of significance Gazon (Ferzon x Scheraff, by Indraff), both products of iconic Midwestern programs, Al-Marah Arabians and Gainey Arabians, Larry was fortunate enough to see legends Raffon, Gavadraff, Gazee and Gazraff at the earliest stages of their lives, along with the Michałów-bred Aramus (*Naborr x Amneris, by Amurath-Sahib), a multi-National Champion in both halter and performance. Time spent with Lloyd and Evelyn Burton would make an indelible impression on his understanding of form to function.
The purchase of the entire herd of Don and Shirley Johnson’s Barron-based D/S Arabians was destiny-altering for Larry. This collection of horses included the stallion Gavad, a full brother to the aforementioned legends sired by Gazon and out of Vadraff. That same year that Jerland Farms expanded to include an Arabian breeding division in 1977 with the acquisition of the Johnson-bred herd, the very first Arabians were registered with the “JER” prefix with Lawrence F. Jerome attributed as breeder.
Soon after Jerland Farms began seriously breeding its first purebred Arabians, Larry met Hermann Blaser from Blaser Arabians in nearby Cumberland, Wisconsin, who had stopped by to purchase canaries. Although no canaries were exchanged at that first meeting, Larry and Hermann, as well as their wives Shelley and Lida, became lifelong friends and partners in the Arabian horse industry. The Jerome-Blaser partnership became a serious endeavor during the Scottsdale All-Arabian Horse Show in 1980, when Larry, having admired the progeny of Greengate’s imported Straight Spanish *AN Malik (Galero x Ispahan, by Alhabac) all week long, made a public announcement that he and Hermann would purchase a breeding to him. Hermann fronted the hefty service fee for *AN Malik, a decision which would elevate their prominence and further ignite both breeders.
The mare chosen was LH Tasha, who combined her Straight Egyptian sire *Ramses Fayek (Nazeer x Fayza II, by Sid Abouhom)
and Pure Polish maternal grandsire *Aramus. Moreover, both were chief sires of global appeal for Martin and Emilie Loeber’s Plum Grove Farm and Burton Arabian Farm, respectively, whose breeders had been essential mentors for Larry throughout his most formative years of Arabian horse interest and ownership.
The resulting foal, a charismatic grey colt born in May of 1981, was named LH Garcia, honoring a promise made to name the resulting foal, if a colt, after the name of the restaurant in which they celebrated the purchase of the *AN Malik stallion service in Scottsdale. With Bob Boggs at the lead, LH Garcia would grow to become the highest profile and most successful show horse ever bred by Blaser Arabians, winning back-to-back Canadian National championships as Futurity Colt in 1984 and Senior Stallion in 1985. The story would reach its zenith back in Scottsdale where the fairytale started, when LH Garcia was named 1986 Scottsdale Champion Senior Stallion in a memorable performance, the prestige of which would garner interest and the stallion’s eventual export to Brazil.
For the next decade and a half, the breeding of Arabian horses at Jerland Farms remained a modest affair, with just under 40 horses produced in the post-LH Garcia era from 1987 to 2004, nearly identical the amount that was produced in the first decade of Jerland Farms from 1977 to 1986. Production levels would accelerate, however, in 2005, when six foals, the largest foal crop in nearly two decades, were born at Jerland, the first to all be
LH Garcia (AN Malik x LH Tasha) with Bob Boggs
MPA Giovanni & Jeff Schall
christened with the “J” breeder designation. The sires of this foal crop numbered just two; stallions who would go on to elevate the positive trajectory of Jerland Farms and also have an impact on the Arabian breed worldwide: MPA Giovanni and *Khadraj NA.
MPA Giovanni (Da Vinci FM x Glitzy, by FS Ritz), was already in the ownership of Jerland Farms by the 2004 breeding season, acquired from breeders Karen and Andrew Wilson after earning his first major show ring accolade as United States National Top Ten Arabian Breeders Sweepstakes Yearling Colt in 2003. Having been in training at Shada with Jeff Schall at his time of purchase, the discovery of “Gio”, as the kind-hearted stallion would forever be affectionately known, altered the destiny of the Arabian breeding program during the most expansive period of the program’s history.
Later that same year, Giovanni would earn his most significant title as a show horse as United States National Champion Futurity Colt, a moment that Larry long-remembered as one of his most memorable and rewarding. Following the prestigious triumph, the decision was made to focus on Gio’s breeding career for the next two seasons, during which several of his most influential foals were born, including: international icons Kharbonation J (x Kharben Khisses, by Kharben) and MPA Giuliani (x Rohara Whispers, by Padrons Psyche); the magnificent matrons Porcelain J (x HJ Porcelain Bey, by Bey Shah) and MPA Giada (x Rohara Whispers, by Padrons Psyche); and full sisters Cosmopolitan J and Inspiration J (x Khenya PGA, by *Khadraj NA); as well as the Half-Arabian trendsetters Blue Moon J, Moonstruck J and Sweet Violets J (all out of Ultra Violet Blue, by Cytosk). The ultra-glamorous Miss Giovanna (x Miss America I, by Zortann), the United States and Canadian National Champion Futurity Filly who defined excellence for her generation, was later acquired and treasured by Larry.
Gio’s return to the show ring as senior stallion was carefully planned, with both Scottsdale and the newly established Arabian Breeders World Cup in Las Vegas to be his proving grounds in early 2008. Magnificently prepared by Team Shada and consummately presented by Jeff Schall, Giovanni inevitably earned the coveted blue ribbon at the Scottsdale All-Arabian Horse Show in the class for 6- and 7-year-old stallions to launch a successful senior campaign. Remaining in Arizona to stay in prime condition for the World Cup just a few weeks later, Gio suffered a life-threatening injury 14 days prior to his next competition. Larry recalls the phone
call he received that morning “as the worst of my entire lifetime spent with horses,” with the news that Giovanni had broken his leg and was being rushed to surgery. Fortunately, not only did the surgery go exceedingly well, Gio proved to be the ideal patient during his recovery.
With good fortune continuing to bless Larry’s rewarding life, an entire new community of horsepersons and professionals became essential members of the Jerland “family” during Gio’s healing journey, a 4-year period which included a rehabilitative stay at Gallún Farms in Santa Ynez, California, where the stallion enjoyed a daily swim and consummate care. When Gio made his World Cup debut as part of an unprecedented line-up of sires in 2012 and his first public exhibition since his accident, his entire cadre of supporters was present in full force, welcoming the now legendary survivor back to his well-deserved place in the spotlight with overwhelming emotion and affirmation.
While Larry was initially confident that he had found Giovanni, he was convinced the opposite was true the more years he spent in the auspicious company of this “horse of a lifetime”. Throughout his recovery, Giovanni continued to sire more show and breeding horses of merit, for a lifetime total of 177 foals, including Scottsdale Champion Western Pleasure Junior Horse Ucello J (x Khenya PGA, by *Khadraj NA), United States National Champion Western Pleasure Select AATR Kharmel J (x Kharmel BR, by *Khadraj NA), and Larry’s beloved United States and Canadian National Champion Futurity Filly Unforgettable J (x RH Triana, by ROL Intencyty). Larry considered it his greatest privilege to have stewarded Giovanni throughout his entire breeding career, as well as through his most challenging days post-injury, attributing his most important lessons learned as a horseman to this irreplaceable icon.
The only horse that rivalled Giovanni for Larry’s affection was *Khadraj NA (*Ponomarev x Khatreena NA, by *Padron), whose status as a rising star he discovered in Arizona in early 2003, the same year Gio entered his life. His serious interest in the stallion was sparked after the purchase of his daughter Khenya PGA (x Makena PGA, by Padrons Psyche) from Devon Benbrook’s Petroglyph Arabians, then just a brand-new foal, but who later proved to be the most prolific producer of show champions and breeding horses with MPA Giovanni, validating Larry’s intuition that both were ideally suited for one another. As Giovanni
continued his breeding career at Jerland, there was a need to add to the broodmare band. Originally hoping to purchase a group of Fame VF daughters from Petroglyph, it was son-in-law Mike Van Handel who initiated the call for Larry to “buy the horse he really wanted”: *Khadraj NA. After much discussion and bringing both parties back to the table on numerous occasions, the deal was done and *Khadraj NA was purchased. The sale would also include the Broodmare of Significance *Promise V, who would continue to be a magical cross for *Khadraj, eventually producing his heir in the Jerland program. *Khadraj NA would settle in as chief sire at 16 years old alongside MPA Giovanni and be treasured as the king he would become at Jerland Farms.
The universal renown of *Khadraj NA as one of the most in-demand sires in the breed brought activity, recognition and respect to Jerland Farms. His predominantly Russian pedigree proved to be an ideal outcross with nearly every mare to whom he was mated for his nearly 500 lifetime foals. Undeniably masculine with substance, strength and vitality, *Khadraj exuded an “Old World” quality and presence that befitted his stature and esteem within the breed. His soulful eyes, phenomenal forehand, exceptional balance, strong hindquarter and infinitely capable athleticism have become the hallmarks of his legacy, the enduring impact of which is still unfolding.
As a show horse in three countries and on two continents, *Khadraj proved to be the poster child for classic versatility. His ten National titles earned in both halter and western pleasure over 15 years were a prelude to his career as a sire, during which he established his legendary status as the premier source of both beauty and utility.
While the *Khadraj get proved capable of excelling at the highest level in nearly every discipline in which the Arabian horse competes, their greatest aptitude has unquestionably been demonstrated as western pleasure performers. He remains, even five years after his passing in 2019, an all-time leading sire of western pleasure winners in the breed. Most astoundingly, the direct get of *Khadraj NA have earned either National Champion
and/or Reserve Champion for 23 successive years, as well as amassing Top Ten honors for more than a quarter century, and counting, in national competition all around the world. Now generations deep in the pedigrees of many of the most accomplished, well-respected, and standard-raising horses in the breed, the legacy of *Khadraj NA remains sought-after.
While *Khadraj undoubtedly raised the profile of Jerland Farms, his greatest gift to the program was his son Khaja J, born just four years into his tenure as chief sire. A son of the superlatively bred Promise V (Huckleberry Bey x Pavane V, by Khemosabi), Khaja brilliantly blended the proven breeding genius of Sheila Varian and generations of invaluable genetics that included several of the most iconic dual achievers – sires with national titles in both halter and performance, the likes of Khemosabi and Raffon (the legend from Larry’s childhood) – and the pillars of Varian Arabian breeding: Bay-Abi, Bay El Bey and Huckleberry Bey.
Khaja’s first foal crop in 2014 brought forth the promising colt Kola J; his dam, Jer-Koko, representing four generations of Jerland Farms breeding. Kola J, with Stanley White III, became the most celebrated western pleasure horse of his generation, earning the Western Pleasure Junior Horse Championship and the Open Western Pleasure Championship at both Scottsdale and the United States
Khadraj NA, Larry & Shelley at Khadraj’s 25th Birthday Celebration
Nationals. Larry had reached the pinnacle of success with Kola J in which beauty and utility are manifest to the highest level of excellence. He and his siblings have now made Khaja J a leading sire.
In the summer of 2016, horsepersons from around the world gathered at Jerland Farms to celebrate the 25th birthday of Khadraj NA. All those with a special connection to the breed icon were present: breeders, trainers, professionals, owners and admirers. For Larry, this homecoming exemplified everything for which he had striven his entire life: recognition of excellence and
Khadraj NA+++/
Khaja J
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achievement for a life well lived while surrounded by those most important to him – the extended Jerland family of friends that had enriched his life.
Those who have been fortunate enough to own and be entrusted with a Jerland-bred Arabian know first-hand of Larry’s genuine support and generosity, no matter the occasion, operating under the cardinal rule that a “J” horse confers automatic inclusion into the extended family.
For seven decades of service to the breed, Larry was befittingly honored with the AHBA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023 at the Arabian Breeders World Cup in Scottsdale. He was the most deserving recipient of this prestigious honor for his lifetime of trailblazing innovation and faithful stewardship.
U.S. National Champion Kola J (Khaja J x Jer-Koko)
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Music
As if the farm wasn’t enough, Larry also embarked on a music career at age 19. A talented musician and singer, Larry performed on the organ, piano, electric piano, and ukulele. Playing in local supper clubs, he called himself a “lounge lizard”. No requested song was off limits, as he played by ear, usually in his favorite key of E flat! During this time and throughout his life, he teamed up with his dear friend Lenore Berg, as they delighted in making music together. He then started “Larry & Jan”, “The Larry & Paula Show”, and later, the 5-piece band “Intrigue”.
He would also accompany the hymns at church or the Sunday nursing home services, and his children and grandchildren on recitals or school programs. Known as the “funeral singer” in the Barron area and beyond, Larry had the great honor of singing at his good friend Richard (Dick) Ames’s funeral.
He also performed for the Barron County Dairy Breakfast for over 25 years, Sons of Norway, and Pioneer Village Museum, along with performing at area nursing homes for the residents, and countless other events.
As for large family gatherings, typically after a fabulous dinner had been enjoyed, the music would begin. It started with dancing, but after everyone was danced out, it was time for the vocal or instrumental solos.
From top: Larry & Lenore Berg; the band “Intrigue”; Larry with daughters Sacia & Indira; and at a church service.
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Community & Church
Larry was a respected and hardworking member of the Barron community. He would often say, “It doesn’t cost you anything to be kind,” and his gestures reflected this. From flowers, fruit, thoughtful gifts, beautifully penned notes, a phone call or quick visit, Larry showered love on his community.
Always following the 4-H motto to “Make the Best Better”, Larry loved the Barron County Fair, the Barron County Junior Livestock Program, 4-H, and FFA. He and Shelley opened their farm annually for the “Food for America” program for elementary schools. He was proud to be a part of bringing the state-of-the-art weighing system to Barron County for the Fair. He served as a 4-H music leader, taking kids to County and State level competitions. He even hosted and taught young people formal dining etiquette.
Larry served on the Wisconsin State 4-H Board and was a recipient of “The Friend of the Fair” and “Bob Peterson Memorial Service”
Awards. He was a member of Barron County Holstein Breeders, Arabian Horse Association, and Sons of Norway. In 2017, Larry was inducted into the Wisconsin State 4-H Hall of Fame.
Throughout these busy, active times, Larry was a committed, lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church, teaching Sunday School, youth choir, serving on the pastor parish committee, and singing in the choir. In recent years, he was also a weekly musician at the Arland Lutheran Church, playing piano and directing the kids’ choir.
Many will remember the sunny Sunday morning he rode his Arabian horse to the church to preach to those in attendance. Larry re-created the role of a 19th century Methodist circuit preacher, in keeping with his favorite hymn, “Here I Am, Lord, Send Me.”
Family & Friends
A son, husband, father, grandfather, brother, godfather and instant friend, many people say, “The first time we met, I felt like we had been life-long friends.” Larry had many that called him “dad, grandpa, and uncle.” He also had names for all his favorite females: “wife, grandma, aunt, big sister, sweetie, girlfriend.”
As a loving, yet strict father with firm discipline, he instilled the value of family, tradition, and hard work. He loved to claim, “My kids know how to work!” There was always work or he found work, but Larry loved to find time to go to Hawaii in the winter months. He shared his love of traveling with family and was happiest when all seven children and many of his 24 grandchildren travelled with him at the same time. He was so proud of them all and loved them more than life. He had a request of all his grandchildren, and it went as follows, “It’s a kiss when you arrive and saying, ‘I love you’ when you leave.”
Larry and Shelley made Honolulu their “home away from home” for many years. They were loved by many in Hawaii where they were included in the Hawaiian “Ohana” or family. It is there that the Samoan Community selected him as a Samoan Chief and gave him gifts befitting his title: clothing (lava-lava), two significant leis, and an imposing staff.
“A GREAT MAN.”
~ Dan, mentored by Larry after losing his own father to a health issue, later performing in the band Intrigue with Larry, and moving on to have a successful career of his own.
Larry & his siblings (above) and Larry & Shelley (left).
Larry and Shelley with their children and two Samoan chieftans.
Arabian Horse Times
Larry Jerome Tribute 2024
From Larry’s induction onto the Barron School District’s “Wall of Honor” on October 23, 2023, comes the following:
“Larry’s passion for horses and for dogs provided him with opportunities to travel. In the 1980s, he worked in Brazil. Later, after the Wall (Iron Curtain) came down in Europe, it opened Eastern Germany and he was invited to come to the former Eastern Bloc Countries. One of the things that made it fun for him was that despite not speaking the language, he could do something else. These people had cattle, they had beer, they had wine, and sometimes they had a piano with nobody sitting at it!”
“So music became a way of communication. Music became the way in which he could express his feelings with other people and the happier people got, the more they sang, especially if he was in Latin American countries. They all liked to hug and kiss. The first rule of business was: if one wanted to do business with somebody, one needed to make a friend. They needed to be comfortable with him.”
“He went to Europe, he went to South America, he was immediately invited into the house. The coffee came out; the coffee cake came out. They were not as interested in making the sale, just like that! They were interested in learning about him!”
Larry was a true renaissance man, beloved by so many around the world as a founder, innovator, master breeder, horseman, stockman, musician, trend-setter, record-breaker, leader, visionary, ambassador, steward, mentor, husband, father, grandfather, and friend extraordinaire. He gave six decades of deliberate intention, immense hard work and sacrifice, loving care and incomparable attention to detail to become the trailblazing icon we all know and love, while making Jerland Farms a north star of uncompromising excellence that has redefined the standards and elevated the possibilities in more than a dozen breeds and industries.
Larry had relationships worldwide through his international travel to Dubai and Brazil on Arabian horse business; Czech Republic, Germany, Poland and Latvia on Holstein business; and Switzerland on personal business. Larry and Shelley also hosted numerous international trainees over the years, becoming both mentors and an inspiration for many.
Personal Passions
Larry loved fine wine, dining, and musicals. He attended frequent Broadway shows with his children and grandchildren. Grandpa Larry loved to meet the kids at Bona Casa and host pizza parties and game night at the farm, but he was at his best making breakfast in the barn kitchen. For over 20 years, these breakfasts were provided very early in the day for employees. Larry admired and respected his employees, many of whom had worked with him for years. A special memory for the grandchildren was staying overnight at the farm and racing to the barn kitchen to place their order with Grandpa Larry, but the kids were not allowed to sleep in. They got up early with Larry and his employees.
Larry and Shelley often attended the grandchildren’s music programs, birthday parties, or sporting events. Since they couldn’t attend all events, they could be found at home with two or three iPads streaming the grandkids’ football or basketball games all at once.
At horse shows, Larry could be found in his “corner” cheering on his “J” horses and then meeting with the trainer or rider to offer his congratulations after the event. While Larry enjoyed the victories, he said that it was not the end-all, be-all. “It’s really more about the thrill of seeing everything you’ve worked for, and dedicated yourself to, coming to fruition – and the compliments from other people. That’s what makes it worthwhile.”
Larry was very artistic and creative. One way he displayed this was through his well-kept yards and orderly farms, of which he was very proud. He and Shelley had an abundance of beautiful flowers and grape arbors, as well as apple trees, one planted for each Champion German Shepherd, and a driveway lined with maple trees, one for each child. Larry also loved birds and had purple martin houses and numerous peacocks parading and screeching around the grounds.
Another form of creativity shown by Larry was through the use of his very large hands. A stranger would not suspect that Larry was so proficient at decorating a wedding cake with such delicate details or have beautiful penmanship flow over the page when he picked up a pen to write. And while playing music, his fingers moved effortlessly over the keyboard.
When it came to large projects, while serving on the Barron County Livestock Committee, he had valuable input into the Beef, Lamb and Hog Barn at the Barron County Fairgrounds, but the most important one he designed was with Shelley and the builder to create the home they desired for their growing family. Each child was given an escape route from a second-story bedroom to the roof, in case of fire, and he added some features that his parents had in their home.
Extended Family
Larry was the “glue” of the extended family, since he played a central role in bringing all the cousins together. For over two decades, since 1998, to celebrate the heritage of their family, he and Shelley hosted a December weekend celebration with everyone for producing Swedish potato sausage and Norwegian lefse the traditional ways. Larry gathered all his maternal cousins—and surviving relatives from previous generations—to carry on this production and other family traditions that might otherwise have been lost.
Larry & Shelley Jerome Family photo
Avalon photo
Known as the “favorite cousin”, he kept the casings coming for Grandpa Estenson’s sausage press, while Shelley orchestrated the peeling of pounds of potatoes for the lefse. After the day’s production was finished, the family would dine together on a delicious prime rib dinner (Larry’s secret recipe). After dinner, it was time for music!
First Cousin Paul Yde shares, “That annual weekend, and all the associated communication among members of our extended family, has brought us closer and given all of us a deeper appreciation of the importance of family, and especially our family. Larry became the center of our extended family circle and the catalyst for our loving interactions. He is irreplaceable.”
First Cousin Mark Yde agrees. “When I think about Larry, I think about the expansive range of people that he has impacted and positively influenced. First and foremost, as a family man, he and
Shelley have raised such an impressive family and such incredible grandchildren who clearly embrace his values and his positive spirit. He has been such a leader and a role model in terms of his honesty, integrity, hard work and commitment: commitment to Christian values, heritage and tradition. And commitment to doing the right thing for his family and friends … and for those who are in need of family and friends. Everything that Larry does is approached with a commitment to excellence, whether it was his music, his past dairy farm, or his world-renowned breeding of dogs and horses. An intelligent and driven man with high expectations for everyone around him, yet with a seemingly endless supply of love and a fantastic sense of humor. Even during all his recent suffering, Larry’s most significant concern seemed to be with family harmony and closing the “gaps” in family relationships. Larry is a bigger-than-life personality and his life and legacy serve as a great example to all of us. I wish we had more Larry Jeromes in this world.”
Avalon photo
OCTOBER 23, 2023
In Larry’s speech for the induction onto the Barron Area School District’s Wall of Honor, he shared …
“There are lots of things to experience in life and my life has not always been perfect. It may sound like it is perfect in this story, but I’ve failed numerous times, and we must learn from the past. I’ve lived through financial difficulties; I’ve lived through hard times on the farm. We’ve had health issues and right now I’m struggling with major ones. Two years ago, I was diagnosed with esophageal cancer, and we made it through the first go-arounds. Lots of chemo, lots of radiation, lots of therapy only to come home and have to go back down for more surgery in November where they removed my stomach, gallbladder and found out I had an aortic aneurism that could burst at any time, and I still have that.
“But I have my God, I have my church, I have my family and I have thousands of friends. I was overwhelmed tonight with the people that are here. I now have stage 4 liver cancer and stage 4 means there is not a whole lot of hope, but there is always hope. I am going to fight as long as I can because I have a lot of weddings I want to go to and a lot of graduations I want to go to. So, I have to decide what I’m going to do with the rest of my life. And the rest of my life needs to be shared with the people that I love. If I learned anything from being this deathly ill, it is that I couldn’t love my kids more, I couldn’t love my brothers and sisters more, I couldn’t love my cousins more. As you get older, it’s time to stop “couldn’t” and forget the junk in your life. You need to think about what’s most important.
“I’m going to leave you with a poem. It’s my favorite poem:
‘Count your garden by the flowers, never mind the leaves that fall.
Count your days by golden hours, never mind the clouds at all.
Count your nights by stars not shadows.
Count your life by smiles not tears.
And bring joy on every birthday,
Count your age by friends not years.’”
Attributed to:
Lucile Reiniger ‘Dixie’ Willson Born 1890; Estherville, Iowa
Some of Larry’s cherished moments were dealing cards and Wednesday night after church choir with Chuck and Sharlot, while enjoying Peanut M&Ms and Squirt. He kept track of his daily cribbage challenges with Shelley, always reminding her that he was still winning. Grandpa Larry and his grandchildren loved card games, especially ‘99” and Cribbage. He loved to win, and the grandkids loved to beat him!
He was deeply appreciative for the loving care he received from his beloved Shelley (“the best nurse in Barron County”), his children, in-laws, grandchildren, siblings, hospice staff, and caring community members and friends.
Lawrence “Larry”/“Mr. Lali” Frederick Jerome, 74, of Barron, passed away surrounded by his loving family January 30, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer, survived by his wife of 53 years, Shelley; 7 children, and 24 grandchildren.
Carrying the title of Samoan Chief, Larry was laid to rest wearing his lava-lava and red-seed lei at the Wayside Cemetery in Barron, WI.
On Thursday evening, April 18, the University of Wisconsin-River Falls honored Larry as a Wisconsin Distinguished Agriculturist for 2024. For their vast contributions to agriculture, it is the second time the UW-River Falls has bestowed this award to a father, Wallace Jerome in 1976, and his son. Several of Larry’s family members were present to receive the plaque on his behalf.
CREDITS:
Story written by Mary Ella Jerome & Scott Benjamin
Additional Credits: Larry Jerome, in his own words from speeches and Jerland website: www.jerland.com, Alicia Wirth, Daria Stransky, Shelley Jerome, Sarah Jerome, Indira Van Handel, Julie Jerome Brown, Mark Yde, Paul Yde, Dan Higgins, Daniel House, Steven Kelm, Ph.D. Family photos provided by the Jerome Family and Laercio Luz.
To attempt to put words to the man that was Larry Jerome is no small feat. Larry had a way of connecting with you in a deep and authentic way. He provided everyone with genuine friendship and he was someone you could trust. I admire how he loved and spoke so highly of each member of his large family—that he knew the intricacies of each individual and he let them be who they were. I respected him deeply as a person, husband, father, grandfather and, of course, as one of my closest and dearest friends.
He was the modern-day renaissance man: brilliant, knowledgeable, kind, compassionate and full of grace. I could always count on Larry for a laugh, or a shoulder to cry on. He was also a man of integrity; I knew that what was said was always the truth and he would always do the next, right thing.
He cared so very deeply about his friends and the Arabian horse. He was one who went above and beyond in every aspect of his life. There will never be a man quite like Larry Jerome. To know him and to be his friend was one of life’s greatest blessings. I will forever miss him, his smile, and his laugh.
Kimberly M. Jarvis
NA +++/
Khadraj
Jalama Valley Ranch
Larry and I initially bonded from his deep-seated affection for Hawaii, the ocean and our desire to preserve both. Our relationship quickly evolved to include the Arabian horse. I found him intriguing, and our conversations were enjoyable. From there, it soon became clear that our paths were destined to intersect, and I was meant to carry on this vision for a man I hadn’t known long but felt a deep connection with.
He shared a waterfall of free-flowing information, educating me on what I needed to do, what horses he wanted me to have, and above all, how to be protective of my happiness in the horse business, particularly as a woman.
My life has been transformed and my childhood dream realized while I honor Larry’s transition to Humquac, the western gate where Chumash believe our souls leave this world.
~Violet Sage Walker
KHAHALA J
Khadraj NA+++/ x RA Kela
DAUGHTER OF TOP WESTERN PLEASURE SIRE AND DAM IN THE COUNTRY
PRETEND J
Khadraj NA+++/ x Unforgettable J
DAUGHTER OF THE BEAUTIFUL UNFORGETTABLE J OUT OF RH TRIANA
VERDICT J+
Versace x Alishahmaal, by Ali Jamaal 5 NATIONAL TITLES, INCLUDING NATIONAL CHAMPION WESTERN PLEASURE JR. HORSE Standing at Jalama Valley Ranch Lompoc, CA 760.549.3532
Khaptivation J
Woven into the hearts of many, his development of the Arabian breed lives on.
In memory of Larry Jerome…. Forever J
Khaja J x Fascination J, by FA El Rasheem
Owned by Donna Clay
NATIONAL CHAMPION
MULTI-RES. NATIONAL CHAMPION MULTI-NATIONAL TOP TEN
Bluer Than Blue J +/
We think of you often ... you are deeply missed. Can’t wait to see you again ... somewhere over the rainbow.
~Randy & Angie Sullivan and Chelsey Perez
Khadraj NA+++/ x Blue Moon J+/, by MPA Giovanni Arabian Horse
ChanceFamily
Our relationship with Larry didn’t happen because of any specific horses, instead Chad and I were blessed to be able to take Jade and Vail to Hawaii to Larry’s condo on what would turn out to be a trip of a lifetime for our family before Vail passed away.
In her short life, Vail wrote many books that we are publishing, including her latest set in Hawaii, whose title character is a tribute to our dear friend and was finalized in January 2024.
~Susan
Arabian Horse Times
Larry Jerome Tribute 2024
Paying It Forward
Larry was always such a big supporter of the Arabian Horsemen’s Distress Fund and we appreciated his support over the years. I can always remember him sitting on the rail with a big grin on his face and raising his hand to bid.
One of my favorite memories is one of our first fundraisers at Nationals in 2013 when Larry donated his condo in Hawaii for the Pro-Am prize. He flew in leis for the winners and it was an outstanding success! The stands were full with people having a great time and the AHDF made a lot of money. Susan Chance was the winning bidder of the Pro-Am pair and she and her family took the trip to Hawaii and made memories to last a lifetime before, sadly, the passing of Vail (pictured right with mom, Susan and sister, Jade).
~Becky Nash
SF
Khadraj NA +++/ x Amurath Galatea, by MPA Giovanni
David and I were part of the fortunate people whom Larry took under his wing, and we are forever thankful for this! We remain at peace with the assurance that our dear friend is under God’s wing now.
It’s with grateful hearts that we celebrate him and continue to carry a part of his Arabian horse passion with us!
~Janna
Schultz Farm
JANNA EIBERGER & JEFF SCHALL WITH KHONSTITUTION SF
Owned by David or Janna Eiberger
REGIONAL HALTER CHAMPION
Special Memories are to be Cherished!
MPA Giovanni
Da Vinci FM x Glitzy
U.S. NATIONAL CHAMPION FUTURITY COLT
“The good man is the only excellent musician, because he gives forth a perfect harmony not with a lyre or other instrument but with the whole of his life.” – Plato
Larry and Shelley Jerome, their family and incredible Arabian breeding program, were exactly that ... a truly instrumental part of all our lives. Forever grateful and never forgotten.
~Jeff and Roxanne
Jerry, Anissa and Felicia, Dave and Sheila
MCDREAMY J+
Shael Dream Desert x Khassandra J 2X NATIONAL CHAMPION
Owner: Brier Lahoff Albuquerque, NM
“I am honored and grateful to have had the opportunity to really know, respect and love Larry Jerome. His unwavering determination and passion brought him to the very top in every aspect of his life. The faith and support he showed me, and so many others, has been completely life changing. He is forever a legend in so many ways. His legacy will live on in the Arabian breed, as well as our hearts.”
~Ali Brady
ABCentre
KHOCA KHOLA J+
Khadraj NA+++/ x Crystal Blue Persuasion
MULTI-NATIONAL TOP TEN
Owner: Jenna Curley
Scottsdale, AZ
KIRI J
RA Aloha x Fascination J NATIONAL CHAMPION
Owner: Susan Copeland Loma, CO
The Jerland and Ames families share a long history together. We have collectively bred and shown horses for some time, but what is most special is the friendship and love we’ve developed for one another.
Larry had a passion and love for his horses that was unlike anyone I knew. He put a lot of thought and energy into his program, but most of all, was a genuine, down to earth human being.
The J will be carried on for generations to come and I hope Larry, as well as my parents, Dick and Lollie, are having a wonderful time from above talking about their breeding programs and farming.
Love, Lara
Cedar Ridge Arabians
Co-breeders and owners of J Ames Bondd (MPA Giovanni x Ames Mirage), 2012 Breeders World Cup Champion Junior Colt of 2011
Arabian Horse Times
Jerome Tribute
Minnesota Arabian Horse Breeders
Larry was an active member of Minnesota Arabian Horse Breeders for decades. His stallions were in our program and his foals were all enrolled in utero. We will all miss seeing that familiar face at our shows and in photos with his winners. The personal contributions he made to our program were immense and will not be forgotten. Rest in peace, Larry. We will all remember you every time a “J” horse enters the arena.
~MAHB Officers, Directors & Members
Arabian Horse Times
Larry Jerome Tribute 2024
Arabian Horse Breeders Alliance
Larry was a fixture and dedicated supporter of the Arabian Breeders World Cup show. Every year he was involved, as a Board member, helping set up and tear down, or working the paddock area, to competing in and fundraising for its continued success. He will be dearly missed and greatly appreciated for all he’s done for the Arabian breed.
~The Arabian Horse Breeders Alliance
Recipient of the 2023 AHBA Lifetime Achievement Award
Bellheir Arabians
We are honored to have known such a great man. Larry helped us find a wonderful dog of his that will carry on his legacy of shepherds, and he had such an impact on the Arabian horse community as a whole. He will be greatly missed.
~Paul, Jennifer and Tabitha Bell
Kharmel BR
Recognizing his potential early on by acquiring his daughter Kharmel BR for the foundation of our breeding program, the Marino family has always respected Larry’s eye for exceptional quality and having had the foresight to purchase the siring powerhouse that is Khadraj NA. Larry’s legacy lives on through each and every horse bred on.
NATIONAL CHAMPION 2X RESERVE NATIONAL CHAMPION
Owned by Anthony Marino & Anthony Marino Jr.
~Anthony Marino and Anthony Marino Jr.
Khadraj NA+++/ x SF Georgia+/, by Hucklebey Berry+/
Khalifornia Khrome J
NA+++/ x Jer A Fame, by Starof Fame V+/ 4/18/2014 - 4/16/2024
Khadraj
I purchased my first Arabian horse from Larry. He was such a unique person and his passion for Arabians drove him to achieve legendary status as a breeder and a Patron of the breed. Our friendship continued to grow over the years and was fully cemented when serving together on the Board of AHA. We usually saw eye to eye in our many long discussions on the future of the Arabian horse.
From the first time we met until he passed, Larry was my friend. I will miss him, always.
~Peter
Conway Arabians
I was in awe of all things Jerland, from the first time I met Larry and Shelley. Their kids, the farm, the horses, the cows and the dogs .... they are all first class!
We became fast friends, and when the opportunity came up to go to Hawaii with them, Peter and I jumped at the chance. I cherish that memory and that time with them.
When we decided to breed western horses, our first goal was to get some “J” horses in our pastures and we got some good ones! Belvedere J, Khazana J, Gabriella J and Khalifornia Khrome J, as well as our Khadraj babies, Athena DB, Khonway CA and Khreedence CA.
The mares are making incredible babies for us and someday, our colts will as well.
The “J” will live on forever at Conway Arabians.
Thank you, Larry. You gave and you loved, and you are missed.
~Lori
Buenos Aries PGA+/
Khadraj NA+++/ x TR Evita MULTI-NATIONAL CHAMPION IN NUMEROUS WORKING WESTERN DIVISIONS
Bueno has the typical
personality. Having even a piece of such a legendary horse is an honor. ~Avery Reed
Khadraj
Our most sincere gratitude goes to everyone who made such a lasting impact on our lives. Many of you have become family by sharing memories and experiences. To everyone who has embraced Jerland Arabians by purchasing horses and supporting our production sales - THANK YOU! The process is bittersweet as it comes to an end, but the hope and excitement that each purchaser has conveyed, ensures that the “J” horses will continue to prosper and bless future generations of Arabian horsemen and women.
We wish you each success in your endeavors, knowing that your part of the Jerland legacy was carefully crafted and masterfully built.
THANK YOU,
Shelley Jerome, Mike & Indira Van Handel, Reid & Daria Stransky, Matt & Moriah Fischer, Sacia Jerome & Theodore Koth, Jeremy & Sara Jerome, Barry & Alicia Wirth, Lyndon & Sarah Jerome and families
KHAJA J
BLUE MOON J+/
MPA Giovanni x Ultra Violet Blue National Champion and 5x Reserve National Champion
KHARTWRIGHT J
Khadraj NA+++/ x Crystal Blue Persuasion
Multi-National Top Ten and Regional Champion
KHARMEL J
MPA Giovanni x Kharmel BR National Champion
PROMISA J • Khadraj NA+++/ x Promise V • National Top Ten & Multi-Regional Champion
