Harry Edward Wehde

Harry Edward Wehde, 82, of Cedar Bluff, Iowa, passed away July 31, 2025, at the University of Iowa Medical Center in Iowa City, following a sudden illness. He was surrounded by his family.

Born July 14, 1943, in Cedar Rapids, Harry was the son of Harry Edward and Dorothy E. (Stout) Wehde. He graduated from Tipton High School in 1961 and earned his teaching certificate from what is now the University of Northern Iowa. He taught science and physical education at Olin High School, where his lively personality left lasting impressions on students.

Harry spent the majority of his life farming in Cedar Bluff. He was deeply committed to the land and the rhythm of farm life—ingraining in his children the values of hard work, ingenuity, and grit. His resourcefulness and no-nonsense attitude were forged in the fields and barns, where twine, duct tape, and wire were his tools of choice. The kids knew if a gate was held with wire barely twisted once, it had Dad’s signature on it—just enough to get the job done, and nothing fancy.

On August 6, 1964, Harry married Eileen Marie Wood in Tipton. Together they raised four children and shared a life rich in hard work, laughter, and outdoor adventures. Harry was an avid sportsman—active in baseball, basketball, football, and especially trap shooting, competing at both local clubs and state events.

Harry was also known for his love of teaching life lessons around a timber fire or while mending fence lines. He valued time spent with family—whether hunting mushrooms, fishing by the river, or roasting marshmallows around a timber fire, he turned everyday moments into lasting memories. He was a devoted fan of the Chicago Bears, especially Walter Payton.

He is survived by his wife, Eileen Wehde of Tipton; daughters Jean (Kirk) Reynolds of Kansas and Pat (Greg) Hipple of Sutliff, Iowa; sons Ed (Amy) Wehde of Tipton and Jim (Tina) Wehde of Cedar Bluff; sister Shirley Teasdale of California; nine grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Betty Hartsock; brothers-in-law Stanley Hartsock and Jack Teasdale; father-in-law Laverne; and mother-in-law Geneva Wood.

Visitation will be held Monday, August 4, 2025, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Fry Funeral Home in Tipton. Funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m., with a luncheon to follow at noon at First United Church of Christ. A private family burial will take place at Evergreen Hill Cemetery in Cedar Bluff. 

Casual attire is welcome and encouraged—Harry wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.