"Our world is much the poorer now for Wendell's passing, as it was made also when Hilma passed. Their genuine loving support and friendship for my kids, their father, and myself made a huge difference, and will not be forgotten--instead, I pray their example of true Christian charity will live on in the lives of those of us whom they touched.... May the rich heritage of love from both Wendell and Hilma sustain you in this time of grief. Jo Keck"
In loving memory of
Wendell Hays
January 11, 2018 - May 5, 2013
Wendell P. Hays, 92, departed this life on May 5, 2013 to be with the Lord whom he loved and faithfully served. Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m., Thursday, May 9, 2013, at Faith Assembly of God Church, in Marshalltown. Visitation will be 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 8, 2013, at the Main St. Chapel of the Anderson Funeral Homes, in Marshalltown. Interment will be at Rose Hill Memorial Gardens, in Marshalltown. Memorial contributions can be made to the Missions Department at Faith Assembly of God in Marshalltown. Online condolences may be sent to www.andersonfhs.com
Wendell was born on June 10, 1920 to Aaron and Essie (Miller) Hays in Houston, Missouri. Wendell served in World War II from 1942-45 as an airplane crew chief supervising the maintenance of P-38 fighter planes in England, North Africa, and Italy. He married Hilma Van Sickel on June 10, 1946. They farmed in the Marshalltown area and later he was employed at Fisher Governor Controls as a machine operator for 22 years. Wendell was a charter member of the Faith Assembly of God Church in Marshalltown.
Wendell is survived by his children: Carolyn (Rev. Donald) Hawkins of Clive, Iowa; Wesley (Kristyn) of Omaha, Nebraska; Donald (Kim) of Bowling Green, Missouri; Alan (Gina) of Sioux City, Iowa. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren, a sister-in-law, Marilyn (Mrs. Claud) Hays of Grimes, Iowa and numerous nieces and nephews. Wendell was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, his parents, brothers Roger, Donald, Claud, and a grandson Andrew.
Tributes
"Sorry For Your Familes Loss. Your Dad Was So Good To Me And My Kids When We Were Going Through The Hardest Time Of My Life ANd My Kids And I Have Always Thought OF Wendell As An Extra Grandpa And Friend. Our Thoughts And Prayers Go Out To You Today. Rob Keck"
"With sympathy to the Wendell Hays Family---Jim and Ethella McKee"
"Was so sorry to hear of your loss. Wendell was an incredible witness to this world of what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ! He was always a shining example and an encouraging word to my own life! I love your family and am praying for you in this time of loss. Jon Keck "
"Wendell (and Hilma) had a big enough family of their own; but, nonetheless, were always happy to entertain more of us "urchins" from the "church clan". We spent many a Sunday afternoon playing football on their lawn and then going in for some quick refreshments before heading home for supper. I have an especially fond memory of being included in a trip, in the mid Sixties, up to Minneapolis to watch the Twins play the Orioles. It was my first time at a Major League ball park; and, an unforgettable game - a very high scoring affair. I dont know if I properly thanked Wendell, that day, but he knew what a joyful time he had made happen for us all. Thank you Wendell. Dwayne Williams"
"Fred and I will always remember the kindness of Wendell and I know he's walking on golden streets in heaven to be joined with the love of his life - Hilma. Fred & Jan Miller"
"Before I went into the Marine Corps (back in 1988) Wendell asked if he could take me out for breakfast and I told him I had to work at like 9:00 am on Saturday at Hy-vee. We met at the deli he bought my breakfast and gave some great advice and told me all about when he was in the Air Corps during WWII. That has always stuck with me I always wanted to return the favor to him and just take him back out for breakfast but I just never did, but his great advice and gentel words of love to me thru christ will always be with. Thanks Wendell for everything. Shawn Ecklor"