Frank Wickenkamp

Frank Wickenkamp

1927-2021

Frank Lester Wickenkamp, 93, died Sept. 21, 2021 peacefully at home under Hospice care.  He was born Oct. 13, 1927 to Carl and Clara (Ollinger) Wickenkamp in rural Sigourney.  He graduated from Sigourney High School in 1945.  On June 24, 1954 he married Beverly Florence Sharp at Saints Peter and Paul Church, Clear Creek. Frank served in the U.S. Army and was deployed to South Korea during the Korean War.  

Frank was a farmer his entire life and loved living in the country.  He enjoyed hunting including mushrooms, fishing, playing cards, spending time with family and friends, and his many pet dogs.  He loved playing his guitar and was in two family bands.  First as the fiddle player with his brothers (The Wickenkamp Brothers) and later guitar with his wife and two sons (The Wickenkamp Western Moonlighters) and other members, one being Charles Allen, his daughter-in-law’s father.  His love of guitar playing has been passed down to his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren as they are continuing his guitar playing legacy.

Frank and Beverly square danced 10 years with The Dudes and Dolls Dance Club in Ottumwa.

He was a member of Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church and later St. Mary Catholic Church in Sigourney. 

He was able to spend quality time in recent weeks with Gary, Becky and family of Keota, Rick and Laurie of Oklahoma City, Okla. and Donna and Nick Azmo of Warren, N.J.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and three brothers, Omer, Walter and Floyd.

He is survived by wife Beverly, five children, eight grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

A private service is being planned by the family with a mass to be held at a later date.

Cards may be sent to Beverly Wickenkamp, 910 East Adams Street, #4D, Washington, Iowa 52353.