Wilfred “Willie” John Gisch, the son of Benedict and Clara (Lenertz) Gisch, was born June 19, 1923, in St. Joseph, Iowa. He passed away on Jan. 24, 2012, at the age of 88.

Wilfred was raised on a farm with his seven sisters and two brothers, all attending rural school. Willie enlisted in the Navy and served during World War II in the Pacific Theatre. Upon returning to civilian life, he farmed rental land in Iowa, then moved to Minnesota to establish his own farm. There he farmed 160 acres. Additionally, Willie worked for Peavy, Speltz and ConAgra grain elevators. Upon retirement, Willie moved to Michigan to be closer to his son and granddaughters, where he enjoyed tending sheep, chickens, llamas, horses and working on fencing and building projects.

Willie’s spirit of service to God, country and family lives on in those whose lives he touched.

Survivors include his brother, Paul Gisch, of Dubuque, Iowa, and his remaining sisters, Delores Engle of Sioux City, Iowa, and Sister Marcellita OCL of Dubuque; son, Daryl Gisch and daughter-in-law, Laurie Ball-Gisch and granddaughters, Amy (Vargo), Fiona and Mikaela Gisch.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Andrew, and his sisters, Marie, Wilma, Luella, Dorothy and Genevieve.

Per Wilfred’s wishes, a private family service will be held to spread his ashes on his beloved farms at a later date.

Smith-Miner Funeral Home, 2700 W. Wackerly, has been assisting the family. Online condolences can be given at smithminer.com.