Kenneth D. Beeler, 77, of West Branch died Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2010, at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Iowa City, of pneumonia.

Funeral services were Monday Feb. 22, 2010, at the West Branch United Methodist Church. Visitation was Sunday from 3 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be in the West Branch Cemetery. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.hendersonbarkerfuneralhome.com. A memorial fund has been established.

Ken was born March 1, 1932, in rural Johnson County. He was a graduate of West Branch High School in 1950 and served in the US Army from 1952 until 1954 as a sharp-shooter during the Korean Conflict.

Ken was married to Mildred (Mick) Walenta on June 22, 1952. During their 57 years of marriage, Ken always introduced Mick as his bride.

He was a petroleum salesman for Cedar-Johnson Farm Service for 37 years. He made many middle of the night deliveries for his customers.

Ken was a devoted husband, father, and Papa Kenny to his three grandchildren. His family was his pride and joy.

Ken was a member of the Chauncey Butler American Legion Post 514 and served as commander. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge and the West Branch United Church. He was an active member of the CAVE club.

Ken enjoyed playing golf, playing cards and spending winters in Florida. He took pride in his yard and clematis plants, and he always made sure the birds never went hungry.

Survivors include his wife Mildred of West Branch; daughter Vicki (Jim) Neswold of West Des Moines; granddaughter Allison Neswold of Chicago, Ill.; grandson Alex Neswold of West Branch; daughter-in-law Patti Beeler and granddaughter Brynn Beeler of West Branch; sister Darlene Frederick of Norman, Okla., and many nieces and nephews.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Paul and Donald, and his beloved son Bruce.