Obituary for Wesley Charles Joynes

Wes, age 75, passed away peacefully at his home after a courageous 5-year battle with cancer on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, with his family by his side. He was a loving, caring and generous man who strived for perfection in all that he did. He was strong-willed and fought hard for everything he accomplished.

In his younger years, Wes loved classic cars (buying and working on them), drag racing and intimidating the local law officials. He worked for several local farmers in the St. Charles and Truro, IA area. Wes also worked at the Skelly truck stop in Bevington, IA.

Wes started trucking in 1970, which then became one of his many passions and ran in his blood. He drove over-the-road for almost 52 years and traveled to all states except for Alaska and Hawaii. Another passion of his was custom harvesting wheat, barley, oats, corn and beans in his John Deere equipment. He harvested from Oklahoma to North Dakota every summer and the local areas in the fall with his loving family.

Wes married his soulmate and best friend Kathryn in November 1978.  They were married 47 years and shared a beautiful and fulfilling life together. Kathryn supported Wes in all passions, projects and adventures that he introduced into their life.

Those left to honor Wes’ memory are his wife Kathryn of Panora, IA and his children Charles (Angela) Joynes of Des Moines, IA; Virginia Joynes of Winterset, IA; Isaiah Joynes of Creston, IA; Nevaeh Joynes of Greenfield, IA; Rhonda (Dan) Lauer of Winterset, IA; Tracy (Steve) Briley of Newton, IA and Jacquelyn Joynes. Also, multiple siblings, in-laws, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Wes was a hardworking and dependable man. He made friends wherever he went and always had the best stories to tell. He will be deeply missed by all.