Wallace John Gonnerman, age 86, of Odebolt, IA, passed away on Saturday, January 30, 2016 at Twilight Acres in Wall Lake, IA. Wallace was born on April 7, 1929 to Christopher “Chris” and Helina “Lena” (Kuypers) Gonnerman in Sac County, IA. He grew up on the farm outside of Odebolt and attended country school at Levey #4 and graduated the 8th grade. Wallace was baptized on June 9, 1929, in the Lutheran Faith and later was confirmed at the Peace Lutheran Church in Wall Lake. Wallace served his country by joining the US Army in January 1951 during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in October 1952.
On June 17, 1953, Wallace was united in marriage to Shirley (Albrecht) Gonnerman at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Odebolt, IA. This union was blessed with four children: Amy, Randal, Wendy and Michael. They made their home outside of Odebolt where Wallace farmed. He loved the farm life and was a devoted father and husband. When Wallace wasn’t busy on the farm, he loved to ride the Gator with his dog, Max or enjoy coffee and sweets with friends. He will be truly missed by those who knew and loved him.
Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Shirley Gonnerman of Odebolt, IA; children: Amy Rasmussen of Odebolt, IA, Randal Gonnerman of Odebolt, IA, Wendy (Nicholas) Manteris of Irving, TX, and Michael (Teresa) Gonnerman of Odebolt, IA; one grandchild Christina (Kenneth) Walsh; two great-grandchildren: Nichole and Kenny Walsh; four step grandchildren; 12 step great-grandchildren: brother-in-law Clifford Wunschel; sister-in-law Betty Albrecht; and many other extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers: Raymond (Berdena) Gonnerman and Roy Gonnerman; and sister Darlene Wunschel.