Leonard Charles Bekel

Leonard Bekel, age 80, of rural Brighton, passed away at his home following a battle with bone cancer.

Funeral services were held 10:00 AM, Tuesday, October 10, 2006 at Behner Funeral Home in Fairfield, IA, with Pastor Wayne Wilkens officiating.

Memorials may be made to the family. Cards and memorials may be sent c/o:
50 N. Cromwell
Fairfield, IA 52556

Leonard Charles Bekel was born October 2, 1926 at home in Germanville, Iowa, the son off Lloyd and Marie (Armstrong) Bekel. He lived in the same home on the family farm all his life.

Leonard, nicknamed "Smiley, was a U.S. Veteran of WWII. He married Mildred Clark at the First Christian Church in Fairfield on June 1, 1950. They are the parents of three children: Teresa, Rhonda and Kevin.

Leonard has been a life-long farmer and also worked as a security guard at Acco-Babcock, retiring several years ago. He was a member of Hope Lutheran Church and enjoyed spending time with his family.

Leonard is survived by his wife of 56 years, Mildred, and their children and families: Teresa Ballew and husband David of Fairfield, IA, Rhonda Wellborn and husband Ed of Aurora, CO, and Kevin Bekel of rural Brighton. Leonard was grandfather to Jennifer Ballew, Eric Ballew and Ian Wellborn.

Leonard was preceded in death by his parents, and two sisters: Velma Keller and Thelma Eckwall.