Dean Lewis Werts was born in Russell January 23, 1922, and passed away Wednesday, March 27, 2013, at the age of 91, at the Legacy Lodge in Chariton, Iowa.
Dean was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Artie Werts, his wife, Ruth Werts, grandson, Todd Anthony Werts, and siblings, Wilma Strait, Roger Werts, and Dale Werts. He is survived by his four children and spouses; Carl and Ellen Werts of Russell, Rhea and Craig Weideman of Virginia Beach, VA; Mark and Nadene Werts of Graham, WA; and Lynn and Freddie Stuart of Chariton; eight grandchildren and several spouses, Chad and Alissa Werts, Brandy Japhet, Jason and Karen Stuart, Shawn and Katie Werts, Justin and Tina Stuart, Gavin Werts, Jaci and Tom Ripperger, and Jansen and Amy Stuart; thirteen great-grandchildren; with number fourteen to arrive shortly; brother and sister-in-law, Burdette and Lois Werts; sisters-in-law, Deloris Werts and Charlotte Werts; and brother-in-law and sister-in-law Bob and Mary Ellen Moore.
Other than a few years in Nebraska, Dean spent his entire life in the Russell Lucas County area and graduated from Russell High School. He enlisted in the Army Air Corps in September 1940, earned his wings and was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in 1943. Flying the P47" Thunderbolt" fighter, Dean flew over 100 combat missions over Europe during World War II. He married Ruth Deutschle February 21, 1945, in Ottumwa, Iowa. Dean was discharged from the service December 31, 1945, and began farming. They lived on two different farms near Russell.
Other than a few years in Nebraska, Dean spent his entire life in the Russell Lucas County area and graduated from Russell High School. He enlisted in the Army Air Corps in September 1940, earned his wings and was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in 1943. Flying the P47" Thunderbolt" fighter, Dean flew over 100 combat missions over Europe during World War II. He married Ruth Deutschle February 21, 1945, in Ottumwa, Iowa. Dean was discharged from the service December 31, 1945, and began farming. They lived on two different farms near Russell.
Dean was a member of Faith United Methodist Church in Russell and a lifetime member of Russell American Legion, Charlie Clark Post #308. He served on the Russell School Board and the Federal Land Bank Board. He enjoyed deer hunting, farming, and spending time with his family. Dean and Ruth also enjoyed spending their winters in South Texas.
Pall bearers were Jason, Justin and Jansen Stuart, Shawn Werts, Freddie Stuart and Craig Weideman. Honorary bearers were Chad and Gavin Werts, Brandy Japhet , Jaci Ripperger, Ralph Conner, and Phil Shenefield.
Visitation for Dean was Saturday, March 30, at 9:30 a.m. with services to follow at 10:30 a.m.; burial in the Russell Cemetary.
