Ronald B. Willwerth

Ronald Bob Willwerth was born to Robert and Charlotte (Reddick) Willwerth on May 24, 1946. He grew up on a rural farm near Vincent Iowa, where his lifelong passion for raising and showing sheep began-a passion that would span more than 68 years and define much of his life and legacy.

Ron graduated from Eagle Grove High School in 1964 and went on to attend Northwest Missouri State University in 1965. In 1968, He was drafted into the military and reported to Fort Bliss Texas for his basic training. During his time there, he earned the Trainee of the Cycle and American Spirit Honor Medal, distinctions that reflected his discipline, leadership and character.

That year, Ron received orders to deploy overseas to Germany. Just two days before his departure, those orders were changed and he was reassigned to Sandia Base, Albuquerque New Mexico with temporary duty orders to Mercury Nevada. He spent 18 months stationed at the Nevada Test site where he served as supervisor of the motor pool.

Following his honorable discharge from the military, he returned to Northwest Missouri State University and completed his degree in Physical Education, graduating with honors in 1972. He married Marcha Faith Dally on July 19, 1970. The couple then moved to Albert Lea Minnesota to teach for two years before returning to the Fort Dodge area. From this union, they welcomed one daughter, Angela. The couple later divorced.

Ron's professional career in Fort Dodge included positions with Bush Hog, Smithway Motor Coach and Smithway Motor Xpress. In 2003, he founded W&W Transportation, building a business through hard work, integrity and strong relationships. He retired in 2006.

Among his many interests, Ron especially enjoyed hunting and trapping, as well as competitive sports, particularly wrestling and football. His true passion, however, was raising, breeding and showing Registered Hampshire sheep. Over the years, he earned numerous prestigious awards and was widely respected within the livestock community. Ron was a mentor to may, generous with his time and knowledge, always willing to teach those eager to learn, whether in business or livestock.

Ron's greatest pride was his family. He cherished time spent with his grandchildren Raechel and Collin, who were the joy of his life. He took immense pride in watching them carry on the family tradition of raising and showing sheep, spending countless hours with them in the barns and at ringside. Ron found deep happiness in watching them grow and was unwavering in his support always offering guidance, encouragement and a steady presence.

Ron will be deeply missed by his daughter Angela (Scott) Spangler, grandchildren Raechel Spangler and her fiancé Austin Elm, Collin Spangler, his sister Charlene Kay Bergren, his brother Thomas and wife Daphne Willwerth, and his many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Robert Joseph Willwerth, his mother Charlotte Edna Reddick, and his brother-in-law Michael Clarence Bergren.

Memorials can be left to the discretion of the family.

Visitation will be 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., Thursday February 12, at Foust Funeral Home, Eagle Grove. Funeral Service will be 10:00 a.m., Friday February 13, at Foust Funeral Home, Eagle Grove. Burial will be at Newark Township Cemetery, Vincent IA.

A luncheon will be held at the Vincent Community Hall following the burial.