Bernard Mengwasser

Bernard (Bernie) Mengwasser passed away February 19, 2017 at Taylor House Hospice surrounded by his loving family. He was born June 30, 1930 in Shelby County, IA to John and Marcella (Leenan) Mengwasser.

As a child they lived on a farm later moving to Defiance, IA. As an adult he moved to the Des Moines area and worked at a farm by Grand and Railroad Ave. in West Des Moines. The large barn there still stands, was renovated and is currently being used as a daycare. Bernie visited the daycare and shared stories and old photos of the barn.

He married Catherine Evelyn Baker, and together they raised six children. They lived in Des Moines before moving to Altoona in 1960. They were members of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Des Moines until Ss. John and Paul Catholic Church in Altoona was established. He helped with funeral luncheons and belonged to the Life After 50 group. He also volunteered by taking food donations to Hope Ministries.

Over the years he worked as a farm hand, later driving truck for Omar Bakery (delivering bread and baked goods to the south side of Des Moines), Iowa Parcel Service (until they closed), Ace Truck Lines, Allied Systems and Auto Convoy (delivering new Fords until his retirement).

He thoroughly enjoyed time with his coffee group friends that meet at the Altoona Hy-Vee, and going to breakfast with his church friends after Sunday Mass. His passions included photography, flowers in his yard, feeding the birds, squirrels, and his adopted stray cats.

Bernie is survived by his children David (Susan) Mengwasser, Val (Jack) Naset, Gloria Hysell, Kevin (Robyn) Mengwasser, Renee (Mike) Ross, and Mike Mengwasser, (all of the Des Moines and Altoona area), brother Louis (Rosie) Mengwasser of Denison, IA, 13 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, brothers Herbert and Raymond, sister Betty Gross, and son-in-law Mike Hysell.

Services will be held Wednesday, February 22, 2017 at Ss. John and Paul Catholic Church from 5 -7 p.m., with a Vigil service to begin at 7 p.m. Funeral services will take place on Thursday, February 23, 2017 at the church, with interment will follow at Altoona Cemetery. A luncheon at church will follow the interment.

The Family would like to express their deep appreciation for the loving care he received at Taylor House Hospice in Des Moines.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Ss. John and Paul Catholic Church or Taylor House Hospice.

Online condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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