Marilyn L. Geidel

Marilyn & Wes Geidel

Marilyn Louise Geidel was born July 17, 1929 in rural Creston, Iowa, the daughter of Alfred August Stutt and Mabel Belva (Filmer) Stutt. Marilyn attended the Orient Schools and graduated from Orient High School with the Class of 1947 and then attended Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. Marilyn returned to the Orient area and in 1948, Wesley’s sister, Irene Felker-Kelly, introduced her to Wesley.

Wesley Alvro Geidel was born September 10, 1925 in Menno, South Dakota, the son of Otto Geidel and Clara Marie (Winter) Geidel. When Wes was a young boy, the family moved to a farm near Avoca, Iowa. Wes attended country school and later graduated from Avoca High School with the Class of 1943. Following graduation, on November 17, 1943, Wes was drafted to serve in the United States Navy during WWII. He was Honorably discharged on May 9, 1946 and returned to civilian life in the Avoca area.

Following a two-year courtship, Wesley and Marilyn were united in marriage on May 21, 1950 in rural Creston, Iowa. This union would be blessed with the birth of two sons: Doug and Greg. The family lived on a farm located south of Orient, Iowa and Wes farmed, producing row crop and raising livestock. Marilyn would work as the Secretary to the Orient schools Superintendent for 30 years. When not working, Marilyn and Wes always did everything together. They regularly attended their grandsons sporting events and loved to travel. They were both long-time members of the Plymouth Congregational Church in Orient, the Orient Lions Club and a Bridge club in Greenfield, Iowa. They always enjoyed getting together with their family and friends. Wes was also a member of the Greenfield VFW and the NRA. Marilyn was an avid reader and was active in the Orient Public Library. Marilyn was very interested in the history of Orient and Adair County and showcased that history by opening the “Bank of Memories” (located in the old Orient bank) which was open for nearly 20 years. Wes and Marilyn celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on May 21, 2020.

Due to their failing health, Wesley and Marilyn lived their final days together in Corning Specialty Care. Wes entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, February 3, 2021 with Marilyn by his side. Almost exactly 48 hours later, Marilyn entered her eternal rest on February 5, 2021.

Wesley was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters: Irene Kelly and Viola Reents; and his mother-in-law and father-in-law. Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband, Wesley; by her parents; her brother, Robert Stutt and sister, Helen Stutt; and by her mother-in-law and father-in-law.

Marilyn and Wesley are survived by their two children: Doug (wife Becky) Geidel of Creston and Greg Geidel of Sarasota, Florida; three grandsons: Justin (wife Alisha) Geidel of Greenfield, Iowa, Brady (wife Bo) Geidel of Orient, Iowa and Galen (wife Katie) Geidel of Greenfield, Iowa; and five great-granddaughters; they are also survived by two nieces: Karen (husband Rex) Hight and Sharen (husband Donny) Downing; and several great-nieces and great-nephews. They will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved them.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Plymouth Congregational Church of Orient, Orient Volunteer Fire Department or the Orient Public Library. Pearson Family Funeral Service & Cremation Center of Creston is in charge of arrangements. Condolences for the family may be left online at www.pearsonfuneralhomes.com. Graveside services at Prairie Lawn Cemetery, Spaulding Township, will be held at a later date with Mr. Phil Price officiating.