Lois Mary Wenke, 92, of Bonaparte, Iowa, died at 1:20 p.m. Sunday, April 4, 2021, at the Keosauqua Health Care Center.
She was born on April 18, 1928, in Fort Madison, Iowa, the daughter of Roy B. and Ruth Caroline (Hughes) Anderson. On August 1, 1947, she married Ferdinand Joseph Wenke. Together they farmed and raised Angus cattle. He preceded her in death on December 28, 1994. At that point Lois continued to operate the farm.
Survivors include five children: Susan (Gary) Spencer of Fort Madison, Sam (Rita) Wenke of Bonaparte, Cynthia (Rick) Eden of Bonaparte, Sarah (Mike McWilliams) Wenke of Ottumwa, Iowa and Steve Wenke of Bonaparte, Iowa; ten grandchildren: Kristina, Sandra, Eric, Adam, Shelley, Amy, Matthew, Amber and Victor; seventeen great grandchildren; brother-in-law: Bill Wenke of Bonaparte and sister-in-law: Elizabeth O’Conner of Hamilton, Illinois. Also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband and brother: Charlie Anderson.
Lois was a member of the Bonaparte United Church. She enjoyed gardening, growing plants and raising animals, she also was an accomplished baker.
Friends may call between 12:00 noon and 7:00 p.m. Thursday, April 8, 2021, at Schmitz Funeral Home in Farmington. There will be no family visitation.
Due to COVID-19 concerns, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date for family and friends.
A private family service will be held on Friday, April 9, 2021, at Bonaparte United Church with Pastor Michael Elrod officiating. Following her funeral, the service will be posted on her obituary page under her “Tribute Wall” at www.schmitzfuneralhomes.com.
Burial will be at Bonaparte Cemetery.
Memorials have been established in her memory for the Bonaparte Library or Bonaparte Cemetery
Schmitz Funeral Home of Farmington is assisting the family. On-line condolences to the family may be left at www.schmitzfuneralhomes.com