Meet Our Staff

Jerry is the Principal Owner and CEO of Jerry’s Auto Group, which he founded in 1979 in Lennox, SD, starting as an Auto Body Shop. Over the decades, Jerry has expanded his business into a thriving Three Rooftop Auto Group, offering New & Pre-owned Vehicle Sales, Camper & Corvette Sales, Camper & Auto Service Centers, and Auto Body services. His unwavering commitment is to provide customers with the best vehicle at the best price and to make the car-buying process as quick and hassle-free as possible. Outside of work, Jerry enjoys quality time with his wife, children Drew and Samantha, and his two grandsons. He also values spending time with friends and customers, whether it’s on the lake, the golf course, or over a nice dinner. Jerry feels incredibly fortunate to work with a dedicated team who are committed to delivering outstanding customer service and creating a WOW experience for every guest. “I am blessed with an amazing team, their families, and all of our wonderful customers!”

Samantha Vietor started with detailing vehicles at 14 years old and has been able to have a role in almost every department throughout the last almost 15 years she has worked here!! Being in the family business is a passion of hers that continues to grow. She loves getting to know every person on the Jerry’s team and help in any way that she can, while growing the business, keeping customer service top notch, and having the Jerry’s culture a positive place to work. Samantha loves spending time with her husband and two boys with whatever adventure they take her on. “The best part of being at Jerry’s is our employees, who are honestly all incredible and our drive to be able to have a positive, fun, and successful atmosphere. We are truly a Jerry’s Family!”

Drew Barr is the General Sales Manager for Jerry's Auto Group, a role he has embraced with enthusiasm since he can remember. Growing up in the family business, Drew is dedicated to expanding Jerry's Auto Group by fostering strong relationships with customers and growing the Jerry's Family. When he's not at work, Drew is always on the move, spending time with friends and family, enjoying the great outdoors, or hitting the golf course. Drew says, "The best part about coming to work at Jerry's every day is knowing you're going to have fun, work with great people, and be in a positive environment. We want everyone to be excited about walking in the door every day."

Kristi has been a valued member of the Jerry’s team for just over a year, serving as the Controller for all three of our dealerships. With over 25 years of experience in the automotive industry, Kristi brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for the dynamic nature of the field. Her deep expertise is matched by her enthusiasm for the ever-changing landscape of the automotive world. Outside of her role at Jerry’s, Kristi is an avid sports enthusiast. Whether she’s cheering on her son, enjoying time with family and friends, or supporting the Jackrabbits, she is always engaged in something athletic. Kristi’s dedication to both her profession and her personal interests truly reflects her vibrant and energetic spirit.. GO JACKRABBITS!!

With over 25 years of marketing experience, Tami Hage is a true powerhouse in both Marketing and IT, ensuring Jerry's runs like a well-oiled machine. As our Marketing & IT Director, she’s committed to building the Jerry's brand and delivering top-notch service to our customers. When she's not at work, Tami enjoys quality time with her husband and kids, whether at their lake home or cheering on their favorite sports teams. Recently embracing the empty-nester life, she’s finding joy in reading books and preparing delicious to-go meals for her kids. "Working at Jerry's is like finding a second home. The people are fantastic, and the friendships we've built are as strong as ever. They're more than colleagues, they're lifelong connections."

Todd VanGelder is the Fixed Operations Director at Jerry’s Auto Group, bringing a wealth of experience to the role since joining the team in 2004. With a background in parts and service dating back to 1990, Todd is committed to delivering the best customer experience for all automotive repair needs. Outside of work, Todd enjoys hunting, fishing, and camping with his family. Todd says, “What I like best about working at Jerry’s is the family values and atmosphere! I feel blessed to be part of a team that is always ready to lend a hand, no matter where we are in the walk of life.”

Scott is one of our Sales Managers at Jerry’s Auto Sales in Lennox. Scott has been with Jerry’s for over 24 years!! Scott absolutely loves working with each and every customer that walks into Jerry’s, as he truly wants to make it the best car shopping experience ever!! When Scott is not at work, he loves to spend time working on home projects, on one of his many cars, motorcycles, and tractors. He also enjoys spending time with his wife and 4 amazing boys, whether it just be around the house or in their family camper. “Working at Jerry’s for all of these years has been just wonderful. I have gained so many friendships, both customers and co-workers … it truly does feel like I have one big extended family.”

Peyton Cooper is a Sales & Finance Manager at Jerry’s Auto Group. With over 5 years of experience in the Auto industry, Peyton desires to help the customers at Jerry’s have a pleasant and easy car buying experience. When Peyton is not at Jerry’s, he is spending times with his wife Caitlyn and his two kids Valencia and Princeton. Peyton also enjoys spending time collecting sports memorabilia, so if you see him, make sure to bring up your favorite team! “The best part about working at Jerry’s is the true family atmosphere! Everybody cares about each other and it’s like we are a big family, not just co workers.”

Zach Paulsen is the newest member of our Sales Staff at Jerry’s Auto Sales in Lennox. Zach is new at Jerry’s, but comes to use with years of sales experience, as he has been selling vehicles since 2015. Zach is extremely knowledgeable on all makes and models, and loves to make the buying experience painless for his customers. When Zach is not at Jerry’s, he enjoys spending time on the water, playing golf and working on anything with an engine, especially Sports cars and Motorcycles. “I just love being in the car business!! Helping people find the vehicle of their dreams while making new connections & relationships with folks all over the US has always been a dream of mine.”

Sam Kettelman is a Camper Sales Consultant at Jerry’s Camper & RV Center in Lennox. With over 8 years of experience in the Auto industry, Sam desires to help the customers at Jerry’s have a pleasant and easy Camper buying experience. When Sam is not at Jerry’s, he is spending times with his wife Isabelle and his four dogs. Sam also enjoys spending time collecting classic cars with a 1974 dodge challenger and two 1954 Fords, so if you see him, make sure to bring up your favorite classic cars! “The best part about working at Jerry’s is the true family atmosphere! Everybody cares about each other and it’s like we are a big family, not just co workers.”

Jason is a Sales Professional at Jerry's Auto Sales in Lennox! He has been in the car business for 19 Years! He enjoys and is his favorite part of the car business, is getting to meet people from all over the midwest and occasionally throughout the US. When I am not at Jerry's, I am spending time with my wife, running boys to events or watching our son play football for SDJF and Memorial Middle School. "I enjoy the challenge of finding the perfect vehicle for my customers. I am working to provide the best experiance I can during the car buying process."

Mike is a proud new member of the Jerry’s Auto family, bringing 33 years of experience as an educator in South Dakota, Iowa, and Colorado. Returning to the Sioux Falls area feels like coming home, and he truly enjoys helping people find the perfect vehicle for their needs. Mike values the opportunity to meet new people, build lifelong relationships, and reconnect with friends, neighbors, former students, and colleagues. Outside of work, Mike cherishes time with his wife, their seven children, and eleven grandchildren. He enjoys golfing, boating, camping, cheering on the USD Coyotes, and traveling across the United States.

John Pederson is the Service Manager at Jerrys Auto Sales in Lennox. John has been directly involved in customer service for 40 years, most of this in the automotive industry. He loves coming to work each day and thrives on helping make all customers experiences a great one! When John is not at work you will find him spending time with his family, any and all chances he gets, as well as enjoying time at home outside in the yard or in the garage tinkering with his cars. "The best part of working at Jerry’s is being a part of the Jerry’s family! The company strives to have great values and appreciate and promotes family!! We get to do what we love all day, work hard, work with great people, and take excellent care of our customers."

Steve Flitz is our Automotive and RV Service Advisor at Jerry's Auto Sales & RV Center in Lennox, SD. With over 18 years experience in Automotive and RV repair, he is here to make sure all of your Automotive and RV questions are answered ... and that you receive top notch service in our service department. When Steve is not at Jerry's, he enjoys all things racing and enjoys spending time at the lake with family. "The best part of working at Jerry's is getting to meet new people and show them there is still a friendly place to get your Automotive and RV needs met ... and done with a smile."

Jim is is our Automotive Service Advisor at Jerry's Auto Sales in Lennox.. With 35 years of experience, 12 of those at Jerry's, he is very helpful and knowledgeable with any and all your service needs. When not at Jerry's, Jim enjoys spending time with his wife, children, and 16 grandkids!! "The best part of working at Jerry's is the family atmosphere…. Oh and I get to work with Steve Flitz (he paid me to say that)! Seriously, everyone here at Jerry's has each others back both personally and professionally."

Mike Fodness is our Parts Manager at Jerry’s Service Center in Lennox. With over 25 years of experience, he enjoys helping customers get the automotive and rv parts they need. When Mike is not at work he enjoys camping with family and friends. Mike is also a volunteer for the local fire department. "Working at Jerry's allows me to it a point to learn something everyday! I work with some pretty amazing individuals and am honored to be part of such great team!"

Paul Kneip is a Buyer for the Jerry’s Automotive Group. With 39 years experience in the Automotive field, Paul enjoys sourcing vehicles for our three locations and building relationships with customers looking to sell or upgrade their fleet. It gives Paul great joy to continue relationships he has formed over the years and to serve his customers with the help of the Jerry’s Automotive team! When not working he enjoys quality time with his own family, including his wife of 36 years, 3 children and 3 rowdy grandsons!

Lee is one of our Buyers at Jerry's Auto Group. Lee has a few years of experience in the car business, with this year being his 45th year!! Lee has been with Jerry's for over 20 years and is an integral piece to the organization. Lee has assisted Jerry in expanding from one used car dealership to acquiring 2 additional stores with New Car Franchise and a Corvette Center. When Lee is not at work, he enjoys spending time with his wife, 2 kids, 2 grandchildren and play golf. "After all of these years, working at Jerry's is still a fun and challenging career. I work with a great family group of individuals!"

Beau VanGelder is the Office Manager at Jerry’s Auto Sales in Lennox. He started at Jerry’s in June of 2023 after graduating from Northern State University with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Beau had the opportunity to work at Jerry’s during his summer’s off from school at various positions within our sales team. When he is not working, Beau enjoys fishing, hunting, and spending time with friends and family. “I have had the opportunity to meet and work with some of the amazing people who are a part of the Jerry’s family during my last couple summers here and while growing up. Everyone has always given me positive experiences and I look forward to having many more during my time here!”

Ethan Johnson is a Sales Manager at Jerry’s Chevrolet & Corvette Center in Beresford. Ethan has 7 years of experience in the automotive industry and strives to bring the best customer experience to everyone who walks in the door! When Ethan is not at Jerry’s, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and playing golf with friends and family! “The best part about working at Jerry’s is the family atmosphere and being able to call your co-workers friends!"

Aaron Manthey is the Finance Manager at Jerry’s Chevrolet & Corvette Center in Beresford. With over 15 years of experience in the automotive industry, Aaron brings deep knowledge and a customer-first approach to every interaction. He values the family atmosphere at Jerry’s, where teamwork and trust make every day rewarding. Outside of work, Aaron enjoys spending quality time with his two sons, Thomas and Matthew. Whether it's golfing, fishing, or bonding over video games, Aaron finds joy in shared experiences. A proud self-proclaimed nerd, he has a love for Star Wars, DC comics, and all things gaming. His favorite quote? "Do or do not, there is no try." – Yoda

Barry has been a lifelong Corvette enthusiast. The car has always been part of his family. His father purchased his first new Corvette, a Red Split Window in January of 1963 when he was only 20 years old. The first Corvette Barry drove was his dad’s 1979 Red T-top at age 13. Four years later he purchased his first Corvette, a Dark Blue 1980 L82. Since then, Barry has personally owned 25 Corvettes. Barry has competed in many competitive events including One Lap of America, Silver State Classic, Big Blue Mile Shoot Out and Sand Hills Open Road Challenge. Barry has also been a regular attendee at the Ron Fellows Corvette Driving School since his first trip there in 1997, where we also bring several customers every year. Barry is a member of the National Corvette Museum, National Council of Corvette Clubs (NCCC), Sport Car Club of America (SCCA) and Specialty Equipment Manufacturer’s Association (SEMA). He is also a board member of the Sioux Falls Corvette Club and current Black Hills Corvette Classic event coordinator. There are very few people who understand the Corvette hobby better than he does. That is why we call him “The Corvette Ologist”. "I have been buying, selling, trading, driving and racing Corvettes since was a kid. I am thrilled to have customers in every state and several from Canada and overseas. In fact, I have sold over 2000 Corvettes in my career."

Mike Morken is one of our Sales Professionals at Jerry's Chevrolet & Corvette Center in Beresford and has been with Jerry’s for 23 years! His first and #1 priority in all of his years in the business, it to assist his clients in finding the vehicle that fits their needs. Mike has loyal clients that continue to come back to him year after year for their vehicle needs. When Mike is not at work, he enjoys spending time with his sons, their wives and precious Grandchildren. He also enjoys traveling with his wife Carol and during the summer months playing golf and spending time on the river with his family.

Scott “Moff” is one of our seasoned Sales Consultants at Jerry’s Chevrolet & Corvette Center in Beresford. Moff joined Jerry’s in July of 2021, where he brings over 40 years of Sales, Finance and Sales Management experience to the dealership! When he is not at the dealership, you will find him on the golf course in Beresford!! “I joined Jerry’s because of their relationship selling atmosphere, fair market pricing policies and relentless customer service. This was quite a relief for me, as you may have discovered, that is not the normal customer experience at all dealerships!”

Nick Green is the Service Manager at Jerrys Chevrolet and Corvette Center in Beresford. With almost 30 years in the business, Nick prides himself with consistently providing the very best possible customer experience for each and every customer that chooses Jerry's for their service needs. When Nick is not at Jerry's he enjoys spending his free time with his family, whether it be watching his kids play sports or spending weekends at the lake. When he is not doing these things you can usually find him in his garage working on one of his own hot rod projects.

Brian Richter is one of our Service Advisors at Jerry’s Chevrolet & Corvette Center of Beresford. Brian has been with Jerry’s for 20 years and prides himself in delivering excellent customer service and assisting our service customers with their automotive needs. "The people that work at Jerry's Auto Group are their biggest Asset! Each and every person is such a pleasure to work with and make it enjoyable to come to work every day."

Chad Fischer is a service advisor at Jerry's Chevrolet GMC, where his lifelong passion for cars and deep-rooted connection with the Jerry’s dealerships make him a perfect fit for the role. Having been a customer of Jerry’s for many years, Chad finds joy in connecting with customers who share a similar affinity for the culture and values of Jerry’s. In his free time, Chad enjoys engaging in dirt track racing with his wife and kids, and he also makes time for hunting and fishing when he can.

Jim Bye is our Parts Manager at Jerry's Chevrolet & Corvette Center in Beresford. His automotive journey began in 1987 when he began working for a Chevrolet, Jeep and Subaru Dealership in Sioux Falls. At the start of 2007, Jim started his position with the Jerry’s Family at our Beresford location. With over 37 years of parts experience, Jim prides himself in getting our customers and service technician’s the correct parts the 1st time! When Jim is not at Jerry’s, he enjoys spending time going to drag race’s, watching NFL football and spending time with his wife and two children, along with watching his grandkids at their sporting events. "The best part at working for Jerry’s is the different people you interact with each day and the AWESOME co-workers that are dedicated to the Jerry’s Family. If I could give one piece of advice when talking to a parts employee is ... please have the last 8 digits of your VIN"

Adam Wiarda is our Parts Advisor for both Jerry's Chevrolet & Corvette Center in Beresford and Jerry's Chevrolet Buick in Vermillion. In his 13+ years in the automotive industry, he has enjoyed time as a Sales Consultant and Service Advisor, but has found that his true passion is Parts. When he is not at work, he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. “The biggest reason I chose to join the Jerry’s family is the laid back and friendly environment. Also, you feel like you are an integral part of the team no matter your position in the dealership!”

Jill Jensen is our Office Manager at Jerry's Chevrolet & Corvette Center. Jill has been with the Jerry's family for over a year now and is such an amazing and key part to our team. She is originally from Beresford and has enjoyed being part of just a great community! Prior to Jerry's, Jill worked at USD for 23 years!! When not at work, Jill loves spending time with family, golfing and spending time at Swan Lake.

Jeremy is a Sales Manager at Jerry's Chevrolet GMC of Vermillion. With over 16 years in Management & 9 years in the Jerry's family, he is driven to provided great customer service, a welcoming & fun environment to all Jerry's customers. When Jeremy is not a Jerry's, he enjoys spending time with his wife & three children. He also enjoys watching sports, hunting & fishing. "The best part of working at Jerry's is the atmosphere. We have very driven people who love to come to work, create new relationships & keep customers part of the Jerry's family."

Dustin is the New Vehicle Specialist at both our Jerry's Chevrolet & Corvette Center in Beresford and our Jerry's Chevrolet GMC in Vermillion. He has over 6 years of experience in the car business and prides himself on staying up to date on new technologies and features coming available from General Motors. Dustin know that being knowledgeable with each make and model will help him to assist his customers find the vehicle that best fits their needs. When Dustin is not in the office he enjoys spending time with his wife and 3 young children swimming, playing catch and golfing.

Kenneth is our Finance Manager here at Jerry’s Chevrolet GMC in Vermillion. Before coming to Jerry’s, Kenneth got his Bachelors degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Entrepreneurial Studies. While working on his degree at the University of South Dakota, he was also a collegiate athlete, competing as a multi-event track & field athlete. Growing up, Kenneth worked on cars with his grandpa and has been an avid car enthusiast for as long as he can remember. When not at Jerry’s, Kenneth enjoys working out, working on his project cars, and raising his two dogs with his girlfriend. "I joined Jerry’s in May 2020, where I bring my passion for cars into making the car buying experience fun while providing the right vehicle for each of my guests."

Robert Cooper one of our sales consultant at Jerry's Chevrolet GMC in Vermillion! Robert has been in the automotive industry for only a year, but is driven to build a strong customer base by ensuring the "Jerrys Way" and providing excellent customer service! Before Robert joined the Jerry's Family, he was an avid participant in sporting events like football and wrestling, while at the same time learning the car business from his older brother Peyton Cooper (Sales Consultant in Lennox!!) " I am so glad to have joined the Jerry's family! Everyone at the dealership has been super helpful while I learn the process and this industry. The best part is the people that I have met in the time that I have been here."

Zach Zirpel is one of the Sales Consultants at Jerry's Chevrolet GMC in Vermillion. Zach has been working for Jerry's for the past three years as a detailer and has recently moved into sales. Although Zach has minimal experience in the sales aspect of the business, he believes that between his time spent detailing, and through the support and training from the rest of the sales team, he will adjust to the new position quickly. Zach is currently pursuing a degree in management and marketing at the University of South Dakota and enjoys being involved on campus during his time off. “I am very grateful for the opportunities the Jerry's Family has given me throughout the past three years and am very excited to advance in this company surrounded by a very supportive and welcoming team.”

Aryeh Elsen is one of our new sales consultants at Jerry’s Chevrolet GMC in Vermillion. Aryeh has been at Jerry’s for little over a year, but his love for the automotive industry started as a young boy, which was installed by his grandfather. His firm belief in hard work, dedication, and determination is what will help him adapt to his transition from service to sales. He is looking forward to building great relationships with his customers in hopes to earn their business for a lifetime. Outside of work Aryeh enjoys the outdoors with his two dogs and fiancé, working out, and going to the range. “The way that I felt when I bought my dream car is how I want to make my customers feel, and there is no way better than welcoming them to the Jerry’s family. ”

Dave has over 35 years in Automotive, with the past 8 years with Jerry's Chevrolet GMC as the Service Manager. Dave appreciates the result of a repair, watching from start to finish from our Service Advisors taking note of the customers concern, to the diagnosis and repair by our talented Service Technicians and finally the satisfaction and confidence in knowing that our customer has been taken care of in the best possible way. During Dave's time off, he enjoys boating on the beautiful Missouri river with family and friends, following USD athletics and spending time with family - especially with his 3 incredible grand daughters! "What I enjoy most about working at Jerry's is the incredibly talented people we have. Each person has a role and are all put in a position to succeed with one common goal at hand ... making sure the customer is number one, I am truly blessed to be a part of the Jerry's family."

Josh is one of our Service Advisors at Jerry’s Chevrolet GMC in Vermillion. Josh has over 15 years of Automotive experience, starting as an Auto Care Manager at Wal-Mart prior to joining Jerry’s. When Josh is not at work, you will find him spending time with his family, where he enjoys cooking for them. In addition, he enjoys video games and working/building computers!! “Best part of working for Jerry’s would have to be all the great people we get to work with. I also enjoy meeting new people (our amazing customers) and assisting them with their automotive needs.”

Freddy Balleweg is our parts manager at Jerry's Chevrolet GMC in Vermillion. With over 13 years of experience in the automotive world, you can expect a positive interaction while you’re being assisted in the parts department. He strives to make sure that all of our customers are given nothing less than the best help possible! When Freddy is not at jerry’s, you can find him at home in the garage working on an old Mopar and may here ... “I should’ve bought a Chevy!” coming from his garage. When not in the garage, you will find him helping his wife Corey with plants and cooking. “The best part of being at Jerrys is you’re constantly learning and gaining friendships!”

"No Charge" Jason is our Body Shop Manager at Jerry's Auto Body in Lennox. Jason started working for Jerry in 1992, which was his sophomore year of High School. He enjoyed the full experience at Jerry's with working on vehicles and with the people at Jerry’s, that he continued working for Jerry and has made a great career out of it. When Jason is not at work, he enjoys spending time with family, wife Traci and two daughters, Madysen & Morgan, which usually involves some fishing, some hunting but mostly water sports. "It has been a fun journey through the years and I continue to enjoy the people and the business."

Matt VanGelder is our Estimator at Jerry's Auto Body in Lennox. Matt has been part of a Body Shop for over 30 years! He enjoys making sure that every vehicle is repaired to our best ability and providing a WOW moment for our customers. When Matt is not at Jerry's he enjoys ALL of the outdoors ... Hunting, fishing, camping, trail riding with his UTV and he dabbles a bit in gardening!! "I really enjoy the family values of working at Jerry's. Everyone truly cares each day about each other and about each one of our customers."

Shellie is the office manager for Jerry’s Auto Body in Lennox. She has been working at Jerry’s since 1989, providing excellent customer service to each Auto Body guest and their vehicle repair needs. Shellie ensures that the customer is taken care of from start to finish, including working directly with their insurance companies to ensure that each claim is handled correctly. When Shellie is not at work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends. She has 2 daughters (along with 1 son, who is deceased) and 8 grandchildren ranging from ages 2 to 25. Shellie and her husband are busy attending wrestling meets, basketball, football & baseball games, in addition to attending dance recitals. “I enjoy working with all the people that work at Jerry’s. We really do have great group of people here. It also brings me great joy seeing how happy our customers are when they see how great their vehicle looks after we have repaired it! Having been here so long, it’s been exciting to watch how much Jerry’s has grown over the years … we sure come a long way in the almost 34 years I’ve been here!”

Holly is the Office Manager at Jerry’s Auto Body team. As a Lennox native, Holly purchased her first car from Jerry’s and is thrilled to now be part of the Jerry's family. In her role, she ensures that each customer is well taken care of throughout the repair process, from the initial estimate to the final repairs. Holly also collaborates with insurance companies to make the repair experience as smooth and stress-free as possible for our customers. When she’s not at Jerry’s, Holly loves watching her son Easton excel in baseball, football, and basketball as a proud Lennox Oriole. She also enjoys spending time with family and friends, and is actively involved in the Lennox community. Holly is a member of the Lennox Commercial Club, the Lennox Elementary PACE organization, and is an active participant in her church. Holly says, “I have always been a people person and truly enjoy working with each and every customer at Jerry’s as well as with our experienced team!”

Seth VanGelder is the Parts Director at Jerry’s Auto Body in Lennox. Although he’s relatively new to the business, Seth has been immersed in the world of cars since he was 12, working alongside his father, Matt VanGelder. Outside of work, Seth enjoys spending time with his family, attending car shows, and indulging in his hobbies of hunting and fishing. Seth says, “Cars have been my passion for as long as I can remember, so joining the best body shop around felt like a natural fit. Jerry’s has given me the opportunity to learn something new every day and work with some truly amazing people!”