Wendell Leigh Van Kley

   Wendell Leigh Van Kley was born January 19, 1955, to Gerrit and Kathryn (Vis) Van Kley in Sioux Center, Iowa. Wendell, better known as “Wendy” or “Wink” was raised on a farm by Doon, Iowa. He graduated from Doon Christian School and Western Christian High School.

   Wendy played fast pitch softball for the Doon Christian Reformed Church for many years. He also loved to hunt and fish. Having a huge garden every year kept his freezer full and he did lots of canning.

   Wendy was a carpenter all his life, retiring just a few years back, due to health reasons.

   Wen’s greatest devotion was to his son, Logan. He dedicated over 30 years, 24/7, caring for his severely handicapped son, and not one time complaining about it, rather always looking on the positive side. He lived for his son.

   Wendy passed away on Friday, November 24, 2023, at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, from injuries sustained in a single car accident near Mellette, South Dakota, driving back to their home near New Evarts, South Dakota. Wendy was 68 years of age.

   He is survived by his son, Logan; one brother, Arlo (Dianne) Van Kley of Rock Valley, Iowa; one sister, Hedy (Everret) Van Maanen of Doon; a brother-in-law, Paul Faris from Harrisburg, South Dakota; and many nephews and nieces.

   Wendy was preceded in death by his parents, Gerrit and Kathryn; his wife, Sandy; and a sister, Shaun Faris.

   Visitation with Wendy’s family will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, at the Porter Funeral Home in Rock Valley. The Memorial Service will begin at 10:00 a.m. Condolences may be sent to www.porterfuneralhomes.com. A service will also be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, November 30, 2023, at the Kesling Funeral Home in Mobridge, South Dakota.