Obituary for William John Werges

William John Werges was born April 7, 1946 in McGregor, Iowa to Raymond and Ruth (Livingston) Werges. He passed away February 7, 2023 in Decorah, Iowa following a brief illness.

Bill was wed to Janice Bente on November 25, 1967. They later divorced. Two children, Michaela and Michael, were born to this union. Bill was later united in marriage to Beverly (Spiker) Wirkler on October 16, 2020.

Bill was a 1964 graduate of Garnavillo High School. He then attended mechanic school at Universal Trades School in Omaha, Nebraska, graduating in 1965. Bill served in the United States Army from 1965 – 1967 and was stationed in Vietnam. He was a 50-year member of the Clay-Gar American Legion. 

Bill was a good mechanic and also farmed, drove semi, and was plant manager at Croell during his career. In retirement, he plowed snow and mowed lawns in the Garnavillo area. Bill was known for his love of cars. He enjoyed spending time at the Clayton County Fair and served on the Fair Board for many years. He liked to cook and was known for his famous chili.

Bill is survived by his wife, Beverly Wirkler; daughter Michaela Helgerson; son Michael Werges; step-daughter Kristy Wirkler; step-son Tanner Wirkler; grandchildren Weston, Jenna, and Jordan Helgerson and Tyler, Brianna, Brailey, Myah, and Aiden Werges; one great-grandchild; siblings Clark (Claudia) Werges, Kent (Cindy) Werges, Paula (Al Adney) Hubbard, Gay (Lynn) Hallberg, Becky Bacon, and Teresa (Kendall) Strauman; sisters-in-law Cheri Werges and Janice Krugger; brothers-in-law James (Vicki) Spiker, Lavern Spiker, and David Spiker. Bill is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, brother Tracy Werges, and brother-in-law Wayne Bacon.

Visitation will be Saturday, February 11, from 4-7 PM at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Garnavillo. Funeral services will be at 2:00 PM on Sunday, February 12 at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church. Burial will be held at a later date.