Harold Ronald Wessels

Harold Ronald Wessels, 89, of Strawberry Point, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, March 17, 2020, at the VA Central Iowa Health Care System in Des Moines. He was born on August 16, 1930, at home in Strawberry Point, the son of George and Gertrude Agnes (Schimke) Wessels, and was raised and educated in Northeast Iowa.

After his schooling, Harold continued farming with his dad. He worked in Cedar Rapids before being drafted into the U.S. Army in 1952 during the Korean War and was stationed at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Alaska. Following his honorable discharge, Harold moved back to Cedar Rapids and met the love of his life, Beverly Esch, at the roller rink. The couple were united in marriage on July 10, 1955, at Emanuel Lutheran Church and then moved to Waterloo. Four children were born to this union.

In Waterloo, Harold worked with his dad and brother at Wessels & Sons Construction. He took over the business after his dad died. In 1970, Harold and his family moved to Strawberry Point where Harold worked for his father-in-law at the lumberyard. He eventually owned Esch Lumber Co., renaming it Strawberry Building Supply.

Harold was a member of Mission In Christ Lutheran Church and the Strawberry Point American Legion. He loved stock car races and thoroughly enjoyed watching his sons race. He also enjoyed roller skating and going to casinos. Harold played accordion and guitar.

Harold is survived by his children, Alan (Nona) Wessels of Strawberry Point, Gary (Debbie) Wessels of Ankeny, David (Insook) of Ames, and Kathy (Dave) Ekstrom of Stratford; 12 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; his brother, Conrad Wessels of Tulsa, Oklahoma; and a brother-in-law, Jan Esch of Strawberry Point.

Harold was preceded in death by his wife; his parents; and two sisters, Betty Cornelison and Shirley Clement.

Because of the current Corona Virus 19 concerns, there will be a Private Family Funeral and Interment held at this time. The family will plan a public Celebration of Life this summer.

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