William Lewis Wellfort

William Lewis Wellfort, 71, passed away on May 27, 2025. Services will be held Saturday, June 7, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines, IA with a reception following.

Willie was born August 29, 1953 in Fort Madison, Iowa to Ila (Briggs) and George Wellfort. He graduated from high school and joined the U.S. Army. Following his service, Wille attended the University of Iowa. He spent much of his career in the food service industry, most recently working as a Regional Sales Manager for Hay’s Foods before retiring.

Willie was a very funny family man. He never missed an opportunity to show his love. Not just with his family, but friends and others too. He was a loving and caring people person that always had a smile to share, and a hug to give when needed.

He loved traveling. Deerfield Beach, Florida and Clear Lake, Iowa were his 2 favorites where he enjoyed fishing, piloting the pontoon boat, and soaking in the serenity of the sun and water. In earlier years, Willie loved coaching son’s Charlie and Briggs with their baseball teams, and had wonderful relationships with all of the boys involved. Supporting Colby’s cheerleading ventures included traveling around the country cheering on her National Championship Teams.

This dear, kind man will be deeply missed by his wife and soulmate of 38 years, Ruth Wellfort; sons, Ryan Jeremiah and William Briggs; grandchildren, Talan Charles Wellfort, Kingston Colby Wellfort, Sophia Rose Maddux, and Harper May Maddux; his sister, Mary Lou Wellfort; and brothers-in-law, Charles, Clayton, Cary and Berk Claiborne.

Willie was preceded in death by his parents; children, Colby Wellfort and Charlie Wellfort; his brothers, Richard, Norman and George Wellfort; and his brother-in-law, Fred Claiborne.

Memorials may be directed to the family for funeral expenses and condolences expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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