Robert "Jack" Westendorf

Memorial services for Robert “Jack” Westendorf will be held at 4:30 PM on Saturday, September 8, 2018 at Bonnerup Funeral Service in Albert Lea. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in Hillcrest Cemetery at a later date.

Robert “Jack” Westendorf, age 86, died on August 21, 2018 at Prairie Senior Cottages in Albert Lea. Jack was born on October 29, 1931 to his mother, Anna Westendorf in Iowa City, Iowa. He grew up in northern Iowa and attended grade school in Lake Mills. Jack graduated from Emmons High School. Following graduation, Jack served in the U.S. Army while stationed in Germany during the Korean Conflict. He moved back to Albert Lea in 1955. He married Catherine McMullen and they later divorced. Together they raised four children. He was a gentle and caring father. According to his children, “He was our hero.”

For twenty years he was a salesman for Plymouth Shoe Store and then went on to work for Wilson’s Plumbing Supply Company for another twenty years. In his retirement he worked and volunteered at the American Legion, of which he was a member for 50 years. His hobbies included completing crossword puzzles such as the New York Times in pen. Jack was an avid bowler and had a near perfect game, joining the ‘eleven in a row’ club. He golfed with a group of men at Green Lea Golf Course five days a week during retirement. At age 81, Jack was rebaptized through Sojourner’s Church.

He is survived by his girlfriend of over twenty years, Marjorie Dann; former wife, Cathy Westendorf; step-son, Kevin (Beth) Morgan of Eagan, MN; daughter, Kari (Greg) Soderberg of Austin, MN; son, Kraig (Cindy) Westendorf of Rochester, MN; daughter, Kristi DeWanz (significant other Arnie) of Hastings, MN; nine grandchildren; many great grandchildren; step-brothers, Duane (Joyce) Lien of Aimes, IA and Dennis (Cheryl) Lien of Albert Lea, MN; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Anna Westendorf Lien; step-brother, Gary Lien; his beloved dog Missy; and many close aunts and uncles.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Prairie Senior Cottages, KSMQ Public Television, or donor’s choice.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff at Prairie Senior Cottages for everything they did for Jack. Even though he couldn't say it he was very appreciative. The family commends them for everything they do for their residents. It takes special people to do what they do.