Gerald Ikerd Flake

Gerald Ikerd Flake, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, rancher, and devoted servant in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, passed away peacefully in his home on April 14, 2025, at the age of 86. He was surrounded by all of his 8 children.

Born on August 28, 1938, in the family home in Snowflake, Arizona, Gerald grew up with a deep love for the land, his family, and his faith. From a young age, he understood the value of hard work, honesty, and service. He was a man who gave much of himself to others, whether it was through his work in agriculture, his service in the Church, or his devotion to his wife and children.

Gerald married his sweetheart, Arlene LeSueur, on July 5, 1961, in the Mesa Arizona Temple where they were sealed for eternity. Together, they raised their family, built their own home, operated their farm and ranch and served as full-time missionaries. Gerald had previously served a mission in the New England States Mission and they served together in the Nebraska Omaha Mission and at the Peter Whitmer Farm.

Gerald’s faith was always a central part of his life, and he led by example, showing others what it meant to live with integrity and kindness. Gerald’s love for Arlene was deep and, and after her passing, he found solace knowing that they would one day be reunited as husband and wife.

He is a graduate of Arizona State University with a degree in Animal Husbandry. Gerald went on to have a distinguished career in agriculture. He served as County Supervisor for the Farmers Home Administration and was a farm supervisor at Snowflake Pig Farms. Gerald spent his entire life working the land he loved, raising cattle and crops. Gerald's work in agriculture was not only his profession but a passion. He was a leader in both Navajo County and the Arizona Farm Bureau, where his commitment was recognized with the Lifetime Service to the Farm Bureau Award, induction into the Arizona Farm and Ranching Hall of Fame, and other accolades. As a rancher and farmer, he sought out and implemented innovative agricultural practices. He was influential in supporting and improving the lives of farmers and ranchers throughout Arizona.

Gerald’s contributions to the agricultural community were just one part of his legacy. He was a devoted father who raised eight children, teaching them the values of hard work, faith, and family. His descendants carry on his legacy of love, service, and devotion.

Gerald is survived by four siblings, his eight children (and their spouses): G. Scott Flake (Tedi), Kelli Riding (Ben), Rex W. Flake (Shella), LeAnne Naillon (Darren), Holli Schultz (Shawn), William W. Flake (Rachel), Shawna McLaws (Bruce), and Reed V. Flake (Shavan); 39 grandchildren; and 46 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Arlene LeSueur Flake and his brother Jay.

Gerald’s family are sincerely grateful for the kindness, prayers, and support of friends, neighbors, and church members during this time. He will be greatly missed, but his example will continue to guide all who knew him.

A viewing will be held on Friday, April 18, from 6:00–8:00 pm at the James M. Flake Home, his grandfather’s historic home at 102 N. 1st Street East in Snowflake. Another viewing will take place on Saturday, April 19, at the Snowflake Main Street Chapel, followed by a funeral service at 10:00 am. All who knew Gerald are welcome to join the family in remembering his life and the lasting influence he had.

If you are unable to make it in person, there will be a live stream at the link below for you to view

Streaming of Gerald Flake Services

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