Wendell L. Westphal, 85, of Nora Springs, IA, passed away June 10, 2024 in Mason City, IA.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am, June 14, 2024 at the United Methodist Church, 202 N Hawkeye Ave, Nora Springs, IA 50458. Visitation will take place from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, June 13, 2024 at Sheckler Colonial Chapel, 114 N Hawkeye Ave, Nora Springs, IA 50458, as well as one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will take place at Park Cemetery in Nora Springs.
Wendell LaVerne Westphal was born June 1st, 1939, in Fillmore County, Minnesota and lived in Greenleafton, Minnesota until he moved to Lime Springs when he was in 6th grade. Wendell graduated from Lime Springs Public High School in 1957 and immediately joined the U.S. Navy and served until 1960 when he returned to Lime Springs to start working as a butcher at the Lime Springs Locker. He married Karen Lloyd on November 27, 1960, at the United Methodist Church in Lime Springs, Iowa.
In 1962 Wendell started working for Oliver in Charles City, Iowa and worked there for 23 years until they closed. In February 1965 Wendell and Karen had twin boys, Michael and Mitchell. In September 1966 the family moved to Nora Springs, Iowa and bought the house Karen currently resides in today. Wendell worked at Hofler Seed, then Goplerud and Butler Curtis Oil until his retirement in 2001.
Wendell was always known as a hard worker throughout his life. He was a perfectionist and paid great attention to every project he undertook. He loved the outdoors which was evident after retirement as he mowed several lawns, raked leaves, and removed snow for neighbors, friends, and the Methodist Church. He also was proud of his garden, raising vegetables he could pickle and share with family and friends until 2010 when his health problems started.
Wendell loved polka music and spent many hours out in the garage listening to it on the radio. He also enjoyed going to coffee with his friends.
Wendell is survived by his wife Karen, sons Michael (Theresa) of Wamego, Kansas and Mitchell (Angela) of Mason City, Iowa; five Grandchildren, Bryce (Ariel), Jordan, Kyle, Kaitie (Trevon), and Lucas; one great grandchild, Ashlyn; as well as many nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family.
Wendell was preceded in death by his parents Fern and Robert Westphal, sister Phyllis Ihns, brothers Merton, Floyd, and Roger Westphal.
The family has asked memorials to be sent to The American Legion Post 449 Auxiliary, The United Methodist Church in Nora Springs, MercyOne North Iowa Hospice or the Nora Springs Public Library.
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