Donald Franklin Wells

Donald F. Wells, age 77 of Batavia, passed away Wednesday, October 8, 2008 at Jefferson County Hospital in Fairfield.

Friends may pay their respects to the family between the hours of 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM, Friday, October 10, 2008 at Behner Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be conducted 10:00 AM, Saturday October 11, 2008 at the funeral home with Rev. Thomas Shipley officiating. Interment will be in Batavia Cemetery.

The family requests memorials be made in lieu of flowers to the Batavia Fire Department. Cards and memorials may be sent c/o:
P.O. Box 119
Batavia, IA 52533

Donald Franklin Wells was born April 20, 1931 in Ottumwa, IA to Frank and Maude (Burke) Wells. His early years were spent in Ottumwa, and he moved to Batavia in 1963.

Donald was united in marriage with Darlene Hartley February 15, 1963 in Fairfield. He was employed in the maintenance department at the John Morrell Co. for 24 years, and he was custodian with the Cardinal School District for 20 years. Donald was a member of the Batavia United Methodist Church, and Fire Chief of the Batavia Fire Department for over 30 years.

He is survived by his wife, Darlene, of Batavia, and his sons and their families: John Wells and David (Jodi) Wells, both of Batavia, IA. He has been blessed with one granddaughter, Hannah. Survivors include two sisters and one brother: Naomi Poncy of Ottumwa, IA, Jane Briggs of Lockridge, IA, and Carl McCrory of Laguna Woods, CA.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Dallas McCrory, and an infant brother, DeLoise McCrory.