Wesley H. Wilbur

Wesley H. Wilbur, 78, died Aug. 17, 2010, at Kavanagh House in Des Moines. Memorial services were Friday, Aug. 20, at Grimes United Methodist Church in Grimes. Visitation will begin at 1 p.m. at the church.

Wes was born in Marathon on Oct. 29, 1931, to George and Vira Wilbur. He married Mary Ellen Elvin on Feb. 24, 1956.

Wes served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict. Following his tour of duty he was employed by United Airlines at Epply Field in Omaha, Neb. Wes was volunteer fire chief for the Lewis Township Volunteer Fire Department for many years after he was instrumental in its formation. He retired in 1986 from United Airlines. Wes became a member of the Kiwanis Club of Council Bluffs. Upon moving to the Lakes he was involved with the Noon Kiwanis of Spirit Lake. He was currently serving as president of the Northwest Des Moines Kiwanis Club. He enjoyed his retirement years fishing at Lake Okoboji, golfing, and spending time with his grandchildren.

Wes is survived by his wife of 54 years, Mary; two daughters, Cindy (Randy) Kramer and Janet (Don) Rice; four grandchildren, Marcy and Wesley Kramer and David and Elizabeth Rice; two sisters, Alice Anderson and Ruth Jones; one brother, Mel Wilbur; one sister-in-law, Bonnie Kier and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters and one brother.

Private family interment of his cremains will be at a later date. Memorials may be made to Grimes United Methodist Church.