Jerry Ben Fielder, age 82, of Springfield, Missouri, peacefully passed away on May 3, 2026, after a courageous battle with dementia.

He was born on August 18, 1943, in Beaumont, Texas, to the late Benjamin and Elizabeth Fielder. Jerry graduated from Parkview High School in 1961 and went on to attend Missouri State University.

Jerry was the owner and President of Springfield Engineering Company (SECO) until 2014, when his son’s assumed leadership as President and Vice President. Throughout his life, he was deeply involved in his community. He served on the City of Springfield Personnel Board and the Planning and Zoning Commission and was a past president of the Mechanical Contractors Association of Greater Springfield. He also contributed to numerous committees and was a trustee at the Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 178, served as a board member of Boatmen’s Bank and the St. John’s (Mercy) Advisory Board, and was a member of the Young Presidents’ Organization, Hickory Hills Country Club, and The Longboat Key Club in Florida.

Jerry had a lifelong passion for boating, beginning at the age of 13 on local lakes and later extending to Florida, where he and Karen took their boat, “Karisma,” to the Bahamas many times and spent summers cruising the Exuma’s—often inviting their children and grandchildren to join them on the boat. He also found great joy riding his Harley-Davidsons with Karen at destinations such as Sturgis, Daytona, and Yellowstone.

Jerry earned his private pilot’s license early in life, reflecting his love of adventure and exploration. Above all, he cherished time with his family, especially at Table Rock Lake, where he enjoyed relaxing, boating, and watching bald eagles soar over the lake house. He also treasured winters in Longboat Key, traveling across the United States and around the world, and spending time with many dear friends alongside his wife, Karen, with whom he shared 62 wonderful years of marriage.

He is survived by his devoted and beloved wife, J. Karen Fielder; his sons, Bryan F. Fielder (Lindy) and Jeffrey B. Fielder (Melinda); his sister, Susan E. Fielder; his grandchildren, Elizabeth “Betsy” Hinson (Daniel), Stephanie Deck (Cal), Benton Fielder (fiancée Erika), Sydney Fielder (fiancé Adam), Peyton Fielder, Hannah Penniman (fiancé Webb), and Olivia King (Travis); and four great-grandchildren, Benjamin “Hayes” Hinson, Scottie Jane Hinson, Carl “Charlie” Deck, and Frances “Francie” Deck.

Jerry’s legacy will live on through his loving family, the many lives he touched, and the lasting memories he created with everyone he met.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Springhouse Village, Cedarhurst Memory Care, Amada Senior Care, and Good Shepherd Hospice for their kindness and compassionate care. A special thank you is given to his devoted caregiver, Ashley, whose warmth and dedication brought comfort and happiness to Jerry in his final years.

A private family graveside service will be held on May 7, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held on June 10, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Hickory Hills Country Club.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Missouri (www.alz.org/greatermissouri) or a charity of your choice.