It is with sorrow and gratitude that we mark the passing of Wesley John Kriegel of Oxford, IA — sorrow at the loss, gratitude for the life.
Here is a glimpse of the life he lived, in his family's own remembrance.
Wesley spent his working life as ['the manufacturing industry and was employed at Victor Manufacturing'] — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
The hands that raised children leave fingerprints on the future.
Wesley John Kriegel, age 42, of Oxford, Iowa, and formerly of Deep River, died of natural causes on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at St. Luke's Hospital in Cedar Rapids.
Wesley was born on September 9, 1983, to Roger and Valerie (VanTomme) Kriegel in Grinnell, Iowa. He was raised in Deep River and graduated from BGM High School with the Class of 2002. Following his education, Wesley began his career in the manufacturing industry and was employed at Victor Manufacturing, Kinze Manufacturing, and, most recently, Procter & Gamble.
Wesley had a wide range of interests and a curious mind. He enjoyed trains, biking, four-wheelers, John Deere tractors, and reading Stephen King novels. He had a particular passion for cars, especially Pontiacs, and was known for studying car manuals in detail, building an impressive knowledge of how vehicles worked. He was always willing to lend a hand to family and friends when diagnosing car issues. He also had a special love for animals, especially beagles-their floppy ears always made him smile-as well as his cats, which brought him great comfort and joy.
He also loved to travel, often taking spontaneous road trips that covered hundreds of miles. Along the way, he enjoyed capturing moments through photography.
Above all, Wesley loved his family, especially his nieces and nephews. He will be remembered as a happy person who was always smiling and for his infectious belly laugh that brought joy to those around him.
Wesley is survived by his parents, Roger and Valerie Kriegel; his siblings, Dan (Jamie) Kriegel and their children, Kayson, Brody, and Tenley; Shane (Rachel McAnulty) Kriegel and his children, Kyler, Lincoln, and Ayla; and Ivey (Josh) Crawford and their child, Kip; his maternal grandparents, Dale and Carol VanTomme; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Jim and Carmen Kriegel.
The family will hold a celebration of life gathering from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Wesley's family home, 2291 470th Ave, Deep River, IA 52222. Smith Funeral Home is assisting with cremation.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be designated to the family for future designation. Cards and memorials may be mailed in care of Smith Funeral Home, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112.
