Jerry Apps, a longtime Wisconsin agricultural writer, author, and educator who devoted his life to telling the story of rural America, has died at the age of 91. His passing marks the loss of one of the state’s most respected voices on farming, conservation, and small-town life.
Apps was widely known for his decades of work chronicling the traditions, challenges, and values of Wisconsin’s agricultural communities. Through his newspaper columns, radio commentaries, and numerous books, he captured everyday farm experiences with warmth, clarity, and deep respect for the land and the people who worked it. His writing resonated not only with farmers, but also with readers seeking a better understanding of rural life.
Over the course of his career, Apps became a trusted storyteller and educator, helping preserve Wisconsin’s agricultural heritage for future generations. Remembered for his thoughtful observations and steady voice, Jerry Apps leaves behind a lasting legacy as a champion of rural culture and a beloved figure in Wisconsin’s literary and farming communities.