Edward Conrad Wurzer

Edward Conrad Wurzer, Jr., age 90, of West Union, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Jones Regional Medical Center in Anamosa, Iowa. He was born on November 21, 1934, to Edward and Elizabeth (Kuennen) Wurzer in St. Lucas, Iowa. After attending school in St. Lucas, Edward proudly served in the United States Army from 1954 to 1958, spending part of this time in Korea.
On May 13, 1961, Edward was united in marriage to Norma Jean Baumler at St. Luke Catholic Church. Together they raised four children: Darin, Cheryl, Shelly, and Dion. In March 1963, Edward and Norma purchased a farm, where he worked until retiring from full-time farming in 1994. He was honored with the Outstanding Young Farmer Award and continued his love for agriculture by helping his friend and neighbor, Collin Jensen, well into his 80s. Edward also delivered the Des Moines Register newspaper for many years.
Edward enjoyed a simple and fulfilling life. He loved playing cards in town and was an avid euchre player teaching his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren how to play. Playing euchre at family gatherings was a pastime enjoyed by the entire family. Edward also enjoyed ensuring family always had a supply of farm fresh eggs. Additionally, he enjoyed sharing coffee and conversation at the P&P Gas Station, taking drives on country roads, and spending time socializing with friends and family.
He is survived by three children: Cheryl (Stuart) Gage of Rochester, Minnesota; Shelly (Dana) Kellogg of Central City, Iowa; and Dion Wurzer of West Union, Iowa; daughter-in-law, Monica Wurzer of Festina, Iowa; grandchildren: Daniel (Raschelle) Wurzer, Sarah (Brian) Tate, Marissa (Marty) Frana, Dalyn (Lucas) Slonaker, Carissa (Kolten) Lukes, Stuart (Daina) Gage, Kelsey (Tre Smith) Kellogg, and Kasey Kellogg; and eleven great-grandchildren.
Edward was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Norma, and his son, Darin Wurzer.
The family would like to thank staff at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, specifically Dr. Michael O'Donnell, whose diligence allowed Ed to be with us for many more years. Additionally, the family would like to thank the staff at Jones Regional Medical Center for the tremendous care and support provided near the end of his life.
A Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home in West Union, Iowa. There will also be a one-hour visitation before Mass at the church on Thursday.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 am on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at Holy Name Catholic Church in West Union, Iowa with Rev. Ralph Davis as the Celebrant.
Inurnment with Military Honors will be held at a later date in Mt. Calvary Cemetery in West Union, Iowa.
Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of West Union, Iowa is assisting the family with services.