Wesley J. Westra

IRETON, IOWA – Wesley J. Westra, 86, of rural Ireton, passed away on Monday, March 30, 2020 at his home under hospice care with his family at his side.

   Wesley was born April 3, 1933 at Ireton, Iowa, the son of Charles and Ida (Katje) Westra. He attended Ireton country school and the Ireton Christian School through the eighth grade and later continued his education through Sioux Empire Community College.. He served with the US Army in the Chemical Corps from February 1954 to February of 1956.

   Wesley married Fann Visser on May 7, 1954 at Rock Valley, Iowa. After leaving the military, they farmed together and raised their family near Ireton. Wesley was a long-time member of the Ireton Christian Reformed Church, serving as deacon and elder over the years. With a simple faith he lived, in life and death, trusting in the Lord’s promise, “I am the Resurrection and the Life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live.” John 11:25

   Wes loved his family, photography, woodworking and inventing. Since his boyhood, he was especially fascinated with flying. He was always most content soaring amid the clouds and never missed an opportunity to do so. He enjoyed attending the EAA Air Show in OshKosh, WI each summer for 40 years.

   Survivors include his wife, Fann; children, Carol (Stephen) Perkins of Duluth, MN; Sandra (Kevin) Hoogland of Merrill, WI; Mary (Bruce) Roetman of Sioux Center and Todd (Nancy Ringsaker) of Ireton; 14 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren.

   He is preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Jean Mouw and a grandson, Jason Hoogland. 

   Due to state and federal guidance on gatherings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the family will not be having a public memorial at this time. A private family committal service will be Sunday, April 5, 2020 at the Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Ireton with Rev. Nathan Kuperus of the Ireton Christian Reformed Church officiating. Public viewing, with no family present, and limited to 10 persons at a time, will be from noon to 6:00 p.m. Saturday at the Porter Funeral Home in Ireton.

   Family and friends are encouraged to bless the Westra family in a special way this weekend.  Since they are unable to have visitation or funeral for Wes open to the public, there will be a COVID-safe sort of visitation to show your love and support. Saturday from 1-3 PM all are invited to drive through the Westra farm at 4987 Elmwood Avenue. As you drive through the circle drive, Fann will be by the picture window with her family.  Please wave or give a short honk of your horn as a way to indicate your condolences and love for Fann and her family. 

   In lieu of flowers the family is asking for memorials to be designated to the Ireton Christian School or the Luke Society.