Jerre Yozo Hirakata of Rocky Ford passed away on Monday, October 20m 2025 in Cripple Creek at the age of 86 Jerre was born in La Junta to Keiji and Toki Hirakata. Jerre grew up in Rocky Ford He graduated from Rocky Ford High School in 1958. Jerre married Betty Hirakata in 1970. They raised their family on the farm. He grew the chili peppers and Betty sold them at her stand. He loved farming, he had a green thumb and could grom anything. He was a great farmer. He enjoyed fishing, riding his motorcycle, woodworking, traveling and gambling. No one could tell him what to do, even Betty.

Jerre is survived by his 2 children: Michael (Ronda) Hirakata of Rocky Ford. Gail (Luis) Contreras of Pueblo, 5 grandchildren: Clay Hirakata, Toki Hirakata, Nate Hirakata, Nico Contreras, Sofia Contreras, 1 sister: Tatsuko Sato of NE, along with his nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Betty.