Willard Wiens, 82, died Wednesday, May 5, 2021, at Kidron Bethel in North Newton. Willard was born to Jacob and Mary (Wedel) Wiens on a farm outside of Lehigh on March 31, 1939.
Willard graduated from Newton High School, the class of 1958. Willard’s first job was as a pin setter at PlayMor Lanes, and after a few years, he was promoted to work the front desk. Little did he know that the bowling alley would be where he first met the love of his life, Lois.
On Oct. 25, 1963, Willard married Lois Regier in Elbing. Together, they attended First Baptist Church in Newton.
Following their marriage, Willard worked as the service technician at LeEd Tire for 18 years. After leaving LeEd Tire, he began working at Hehr International for 15 years.
Bowling remained a passion of Willard’s, and for over 40 years, he served as the secretary of the Tuesday night league. Over the years, the bowling alley brought Willard many true and special friends.
When Willard wasn’t bowling, he enjoyed gardening, tinkering on cars and riding his Honda 200 motorcycle to work.
In 2018, Willard moved to Kidron Bethel Healthcare and enjoyed listening to staff and people watching.
Willard is survived by his daughter, Karen Wiens and son, Jim (Kim) Wiens, both of Newton; daughter, Wendy (Patrick) O’Hare of Topeka; grandsons, Evan (Megan) Gronau of Ottawa, and Avery Gronau of Lawrence; great-grandchildren, Maggie Gronau and Garrison Gronau (to be born September 2021) of Ottawa.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Lois Wiens on March 19, 2017; brother, Theodore Wiens; sister, Evelyn Rauh; and nephew, Leroy Rauh.
A graveside service was at 11 a.m. Monday, May 17, at Greenwood Cemetery in Newton, with Pastor Chip Bungard presiding. A visitation was the afternoon prior, Sunday, May 16, from 1 to 5 p.m. at Petersen Funeral Home in Newton.
Memorials are suggested to the Newton High School Bowling Club or Newton Meals on Wheels in care of Petersen Funeral Home.
