The Free Press, Mankato, MN

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May 7, 2011

Henry Charles Wessels

Henry Charles Wessels, age 80, of Madelia passed away Thursday, May 5, 2011, at Luther Memorial Home in Madelia.

Hank, as he was called, was born on March 16, 1931, in Buffalo Center, IA, to Carl and Emma (Hundt) Wessels. In early 1933, the family moved to a farm 3 1/2 miles N.E. of Blue Earth. This is where Hank grew up and eventually entered a farming partnership with his brother Everett, who still lives at the site. Hank graduated from Bethany Lutheran High School in 1950, and in October of 1953, was united in marriage to Karen Madsen of Rapidan. The couple was blessed with 2 adopted children, Wayne in 1959, and Tami in 1961. The marriage ended in divorce in 1976, and in 1980 he met Donna Carstensen of Madelia and they were married in December of 1982. Hank farmed until 1982, and after his farm sale in 1983 he moved to Madelia. He continued to help area farmers with spring and fall field work as farming never leaves your blood.

In 1989, he took on a new “career” by becoming a Master Gardener. He wrote for many area newspapers and “The Land” magazine for many years. Hank loved helping others, whether it be with gardening, sing-a-longs, or playing Santa Claus at Christmas time. He had a heart of gold.

Survivors include his wife Donna of Madelia; son Wayne of Dawson; daughter Tami of Mankato; 2 stepchildren, Jeff Carstensen of Maple Grove and Zachary Carstensen of Pipestone; a brother Everett of Blue Earth; 8 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 10, at Faith Lutheran Church in Madelia, with burial in Riverside Cemetery. Visitation begins 1 hour prior to the service at the church. The Pilgrim Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.

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