WANBERG, Frances R. (1921-2020)

WANBERG

Posted By: Karon Velau (email)
Date: 1/29/2021 at 16:54:18

Frances R. Wanberg
(April 5, 1921 – April 9, 2020)

GALVA – A celebration of life service for France R. Wanberg, 99, of Galva was held Friday, July 10, 2020 at 4 p.m. at the Nicklas D. Jensen Funeral Home of Holstein. American Legion Dibbern Post #454 of Galva conducted military rites with Nicklas D. Jensen Funeral Home of Holstein in charge of the arrangements.
The son of Elmer and Vera (Clapsaddle), France F. Wanberg was born on a farm northwest of Galva, Iowa on April 5, 1921. He attended school all 12 years in Galva, graduating in 1938. Following graduation, he worked for the Sioux Honey Association in Sioux City and Lima, Ohio. On December 31, 1941 he enlisted in the Army Air Corps. He was stationed in Los Angeles in communication radio radar with the 1st Fighter Control Squadron before being shipped overseas. On November 11, 1943, while en route to New Guinea, a torpedo hit his troopship, the USS Cape San Juan. Forced to abandon ship, he spent 30 hours in shark-infested waters before being rescued by the destroyer USS McCalla. After his squadron reorganized, he made D-Day landings in New Guinea and the Philippines. He was honorably discharged on Nov. 12, 1945 and was awarded the Purple Heart, Asiatic Battle Stars, Philippine Liberation Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. After returning home, he attended Morningside College and Iowa State University. He then returned to help his father farm. On June 6, 1948, he was united in marriage to Helen Ling of Sheldon, IA. He continued to farm until he was appointed Postmaster of Galva in June of 1954 where he served until retiring in 1981. Having 99 years of a life well lived, Frances passed away on April 9, 2020 at Holstein Senior Living. He was preceded in death by his wife, Helen and his parents.
He is survived by his children, Kathy (Dennis) Breyfogle of Holstein IA, Gary (Deb) Wanberg of Galva, IA, Becky (Kirby) Neil of Gravois Mills, MO, Rick Wanberg of Denison, IA, twelve grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren, a sister, Joanne Brueck, brother Dr. Kenneth (Dottie) Wanberg and several nieces and nephews.
Sources: Ida County Courier, Ida Grove, Iowa, Fri., June 26, 2020 and Nicklas D. Jensen Funeral Home & Monument Company, Holstein, Iowa at https://www.nicklasdjensenfh.com/