Willard Ronald Herke, son of William and Kathryn (Lammers) Herke, was born in Osgood, Iowa on December 19, 1937. He passed away on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at Avera Holy Family Hospital in Estherville, at the age of 87 years. A memorial service for Willard took place on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at Bethel Lutheran Church in Graettinger with Pastor John Wolf officiating. Burial will take place at Valley View Cemetery in Graettinger at a later date.
Willard graduated from Graettinger High School. On August 3, 1958, he was united in marriage to Joan Schnell in Terril, Iowa. The couple made their home east of Graettinger, where they farmed and raised livestock. Willard and Joan owned and operated the Kountry Wood Hut for 20 years. The couple wintered in Mission, Texas for many years.
He was a member of the Bethel Lutheran Church in Graettinger. He was an active community member; serving on various boards including: the Graettinger Business Club, Palo Alto County Pork Producers, and the Farmer’s Cooperative Elevator. Willard spent many days golfing at the Hillcrest Golf Course and working in his woodshop creating many projects. He also enjoyed fishing. In 2015, Joan and Willard served as Grand Marshals for the Graettinger Labor Day Parade.
Willard is survived by his children Scott Herke of Graettinger, Mick (Jan) Herke of Ankeny, and Kurt (Steve Kampa) Herke of St. Paul, Minnesota; and his five grandchildren Marshall Whitney, Morgan Whitney, Jack Herke-Dennert, Eric Herke, and Aether Herke. He is also survived by his brother, Richard Herke; and many nieces, nephews, and close friends.
Willard is preceded in death by his parents, wife Joan, daughter Connie Herke, and siblings, Arlene Henkelvig, Alice Kathman, Esther Anderson, Wilma Refsell and August Herke.
Memorials are preferred to the Graettinger Terril Community School Foundation.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.henryolsonfuneral.com.
Henry Olson Funeral Home of Graettinger assisted the family with arrangements.
