Robert Leon Wenzel Sr.

Robert Leon Wenzel, Sr., age 91, of Moorhead, MN, formerly of Nevis, MN, died peacefully October 15, 2015 at Eventide Nursing Home in Moorhead with his good friend and Pastor, Tom Drury by his side. Bob was born November 18, 1923 in Bismarck, ND to Nicholas and Rose (Dodson) Wenzel. Bob enlisted in the United States Army on May 25, 1944 and served his country bravely in the Asiatic/Pacific theatres of World War II until his medical discharge in March of 1946 after receiving a Purple Heart. Robert married Phyllis Elaine Saunders on July 31, 1951 in Aberdeen, SD. This union was blessed with eleven children: Robert, Deborah, Kathy, Leah, Donald, Elmer, David, Daniel, Sandy, Shirley and Cindy. Bob worked as a building contractor building homes, schools, hospitals and churches throughout his career. He also owned and operated a cabinet shop until his retirement in 1983. Bob's life was deeply saddened by the death of his wife, Phyllis on February 14, 1983. In May of 1987, Bob purchased a retirement home in Nevis. On July 13, 1987 Bob married Melvina Thorson of Fargo, ND. They made their home in Nevis, MN until her passing on May 31, 2009. During his retirement years Bob volunteered as a Senior Companion, helping many seniors continue to live independently at home for which he received many commendations. In his spare time he enjoyed raising beautiful flowers into colorful splendor for all to enjoy. He also enjoyed creating beautiful stained glass windows and lampshades. Bob also enjoyed hunting for Indian artifacts. Above all, he will be remembered as a man of faith who loved his family with all his heart. He will be lovingly remembered by his nine children: Deborah Greeley, Kathy Brown, Leah Wenzel, Elmer (Sara) Wenzel, David (Pam) Wenzel, Daniel (Rachel) Wenzel, Sandy Wenzel, Shirley (Mitch) Cossette, and Cindy Wenzel (Buroker); three step children: Dave Thoreson, Lowell Thoreson and Linda (Dennis) Klein; many precious grandchildren and great grandchildren; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. Robert was preceded in death by his two wives: Phyllis and Melvina; his sons: Robert L. Wenzel Jr. and Donald Wenzel; a grandson, Robert L. Wenzel III; a great granddaughter, Mayline Rae and two brothers: Everett Tuftland and Elmer Wenzel. Funeral services will be held 11 AM Tuesday, October 20, 2015 at the Jones-Pearson Funeral Home in Park Rapids with Rev. Thomas Drury of the Bible Baptist Church in Nevis officiating. Barbara Strecker will serve as the organist. The casket bearers will be grandsons: Andrew Winczewski, Dalton Cossette, Logan Wenzel, Cody Wenzel, Nick Wenzel, Mike Pauly and Paul Wenzel. The rest of his grandchildren will serve as honorary casketbearers. Interment will be made in the Resthaven Cemetery in Nevis. Military honors will be conducted by the Star Of The North Marine Corps League. To leave on line condolences or to view the video tribute please visit www.jonespearson.com.