Obituaries : Wesley Ray Bookmeier

Wesley Bookmeier

VINTON – Wesley Ray Bookmeier, 85, passed away Sunday, September 28, 2014, in the Ed and Joan Hemphill Hospice Unit at St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, following a sudden illness. In the generous spirit of giving, Wesley was an organ donor. Per Wesley’s request, his body was cremated, private family services will be held, and he will be laid to rest in Keystone Cemetery.

Wesley was born May 18, 1929, in Dysart, Iowa, the son of Fred and Anna Haack Bookmeier. On January 16, 1952, Wesley was united in marriage with Elaine Selk in Belle Plaine, Iowa.

Wesley farmed in the Keystone and Garrison areas and worked for Farm Services and Benton County Secondary Roads. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Vinton. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, along with tinkering in his shop and square dancing.

Wesley is survived by his wife, Elaine; two sons: Ray (Barb) and Alan Bookmeier of Vinton; two grandchildren: Anita (Jason) Yessak and Kevin (Michelle) Bookmeier; three great-grandchildren: Jordan and Marissa Yessak and Matthew Bookmeier; and many nieces and nephews and their families.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his mother- and father-in-law, Wilhelm and Alice Selk; one sister, Norma Grimm, and her husband Dale; and sister-in-law Maurine Arp and her husband Albert.

A memorial fund has been established.

Van Steenhuyse-Russell Funeral Home is caring for Wesley and his family. Condolences may be left at vsrfh.com.