Willard DeBerg

Willard Kenwod DeBerg, 91, of Ackley, began his new life on Friday, September 19, 2025, at The Village of Ackley. A private family burial will be held at Oakwood Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at Timbers Edge Wedding & Event Centre, 19493, County Highway S56, Steamboat Rock, Iowa, beginning at 4:00 p.m. A harvest-style meal will be served at 4:30 p.m., followed by a time of remembrance at 5:30 p.m. In honor of the season and Willard's life rooted in farming, guests are invited to wear harvest-appropriate attire as we gather in fellowship to share a meal and give thanks for a life well-lived. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the American Legion in Ackley, Iowa, or The Village in Ackley, Iowa. Funeral arrangements are under the guidance of the Sietsema Funeral Home in Ackley.
Willard was born on December 30, 1933, on a farm near Shell Rock, Iowa. He grew up with a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for faith, family, and community-values that shaped his entire life. Willard graduated from Ackley High School in 1952 and entered the U.S. Army in October of 1952. He remained a lifelong resident of the area. On September 12, 1959, Willard was united in marriage to Darlene Lindaman. Together they shared 66 wonderful years, raising three children and building a life centered on love, laughter, and faith.
He enjoyed driving the school bus and proudly owned and operated a door-to-door milk delivery business. Willard had a passion for watching family and friends play sports. He was actively involved in his community through the American Legion, the Ackley City Council, and First Presbyterian Church. Willard will be remembered for his steady kindness, strong character, and the joy he found in family gatherings, farming life, and the simple gifts of each day.
Willard is survived by his beloved wife, Darlene; his children: Debra Jo McDowell (Jim), Steven Kenwood DeBerg (Kelly), and Michael John DeBerg (Janet); and his grandchildren: Jess Billerbeck (Andrew), Jory McDowell (Ally), Ben DeBerg (Adie), Emily DeBerg, Nicole Becker, Kaley Anderlik (Justin), Julie Brissette, Korey DeBerg, Kollin DeBerg, Austin Schlatter (Kate), and Casey Schlatter. He had a special farming relationship with Cody Deters. He is also survived by nine great-grandchildren, along with many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.
He was blessed to share life with his siblings: Norrell Uhlenhopp (Merle), Terrill DeBerg (Shirley), Trenton DeBerg (Sharryl), and Corliss Ellingson.
Willard was preceded in death by his parents, Claus and Cornelia DeBerg; his brothers Dewayne DeBerg and Newlyn DeBerg; his sister-in-law Dolores DeBerg; and his brother-in-law Marvin Ellingson.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caring staff at The Village and Care Initiatives.