Beeler, Kenneth D.

Kenneth D. Beeler, 77, of West Branch, died Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2010, at Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Iowa City of pneumonia. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Monday at United Methodist Church, West Branch. Visitation will be held Sunday from 3 to 7 p.m. at Henderson-Barker Funeral Home in West Branch. Burial will be in the West Branch Cemetery.

Ken was born March 1, 1932, in rural Johnson County. He was a graduate of West Branch High School in 1950 and served in the U.S. Army from 1952 until 1954 as a sharpshooter during the Korean conflict. Ken was married to Mildred “Mick” Walenta on June 22, 1952. During their 57 years of marriage, Ken always introduced Mick as his bride. He was a petroleum salesman for Cedar-Johnson Farm Service for 37 years. He made many middle of the night deliveries for his customers.

Ken was a devoted husband, father, and Papa Kenny to his three grandchildren. His family was his pride and joy.

Ken was a member of the Chauncey Butler American Legion Post 514 and served as commander. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge and the West Branch United Church. He was an active member of the CAVE club. Ken enjoyed playing golf, playing cards and spending winters in Florida. He took pride in his yard and clematis plants, and he always made sure the birds never went hungry.

Survivors include his wife, Mildred of West Branch; daughter, Vicki (Jim) Neswold of West Des Moines; granddaughter, Allison Neswold of Chicago; grandson, Alex Neswold of West Branch; daughter-in-law, Patti Beeler, and granddaughter, Brynn Beeler, of West Branch. He is also survived by sister, Darlene Frederick of Norman, Okla.; and many nieces and nephews.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Paul and Donald; and his beloved son, Bruce.

Online condolences may be made to the family at

A memorial fund has been established.