Wesley C. Van Houten
I'm so sorry for your loss. Wes was a very funny and loved person. Even though I have not seen him in quite sometime I'll miss him dearly.
lindsay
Marlton
NJ
I am so sorry for your loss. I haven't seen Wes in years but I grew up with him at Solon and was saddened to hear of his passing. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Rachel Schut
San Francisco
CA
Wes went to school with my daughters. I am so sorry to hear about your loss.
kay ellefson
north liberty
IA
So sorry for your loss, he will be missed, and not forgotten. We were close in school but then lost touch.
brian buck
Cedar Rapids
IA
Wes and I were very close throughout elementary and jr. high. I am honored to say he was my first "boyfriend". My thoughts and prayers are will you through this difficult time. He will be missed. God Bless.
Lydia Drahozal Foust
Bellevue
IA
When thinking about the loss of someone as beloved as Wes, I like to think of myself as lucky. Lucky because I got to know someone like him at all, let alone in his short time here. Wes could always make people smile, no matter what was going on, and had a very big heart. The world lost a little bit of brightness when Wes passed. The pain will never subside, but it will become easier to deal with, and Wes will live on in our memories forever. So sad for everyone's loss.
Mallory Smith
IA
Dave, sorry to hear of your son's death. Thoughts are with you and your family.
John and Margene Erlenbush
Ainsworth
IA
I remember Wes coming to play with my brother Brian all the time when they were growing up, chasing them around the house and playing football out in the yard. Wes was a great kid and though I hadn't seen him in years, I will miss him.
Chad Buck
Cedar Rapids
IA
David,Diane and entire family, The Loss of Wes is tragic and my thoughts and prayers are with the entire family during this difficult time. I am sorry I can not be there but you are all in my thoughs. All my Love
Sue Fiala
IA
You have my family's deepest sympathy.I got to know Wes through my kids.They hung around a lot together and I always enjoyed talking to Wes.He was always full of pep and vinegar.He will be missed deeply by my family.
William Sedlacek Family
Iowa City
IA
Wes was a great guy. We went to high school together. I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time.
Janelle Chute
North Liberty
IA
The bitterest tears are shed over the words left unsaid and the deeds left undone. He will be missed. All my love and prayers to all of our families
Carla Heath
Cedar Rapids
IA
Dave, Diane and family, you have our deepest sympathy on the loss of Wes. We are thinking and praying for you.
Dan & Chris Reiss & family
Ryan
IA
Thinking of you.
Adam, Kari and Addison Schulte
Manchester
IA
Please accept our deepest sympathy.
The Staff at the Coralville Vine
Coralville
IA
I remember growning up with Wes and since we lived so close we use to do all kinds of crazy things like build model cars together then paint them thinking we would start a buisness doing this and becoming rich, we also use to make up fake radio station session on tapes it was fun we lost touch after awhile but we got back in touch after awhile I will miss this Guy and to his dad, you still make the best cheeseburgers I have ever had. Sorry for your loss to all who had the pleasure to really know WES
Sean O'Sullivan
Solon
IA
I am very sorry for your loss. While I didn't know Wes personally my boyfriend worked with him at Boston's. I met him a few times and he seemed a nice man. Mark and I both send our deepest condolences.
Megan Harper
Coralville
IA
To my older brother, I'm sorry we never had a chance to get things back to the way they used to be. Even though we almost never saw eye-to-eye on anything, I want to say I still love you and miss you. I will never forget all the memories we shared. I look at my favorite picture of us from when we were little in our Dallas Cowboys hats being goofy and smiling for the camera. I miss those days, and I miss you. I will never forget you. I love you. Court
Courtney Nelson
Manchester
IA
Diana, David and Courtney and Ben- My thoughts and prayers are with you through his difficult time. I used to babysit Wes when he was younger. He was such a great boy to watch. You will be missed!
Angie (DeMoss) Brockhohn
Delhi
IA
Steve and Pat Wright
cedar Rapids
IA
David, our thoughts and prayers are with you. We have good memories with Wes, too. It was always great to see him at family functions. If you need us, we are here. Steve and Pat
Steve and Pat Wright
Cedar Rapids, Ia
IA
Diane and family, Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Good memories last a long time. We have good memories of Wes, too. Steve and Pat
Steve and Pat Wright
Cedar Rapids
IA
Diane, Dave and family - I would like to extend my deepest, heartfelt sympathy to all of you. The loss of a loved one is difficult at any time, especially without a moment's notice. Know God has Wes in his hands and he will protect him for eternity. Faith is the key during these difficult times. God bless all of you - Chris
chris tegeler
manchester
IA
Dave our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. What great memories we have will never be forgotten.we will always remember the great times tractor pulling, family functions etc. with Wes. We are thinking of you. AL,KRISTI,CODY, SARAH & KAYLIE WRIGHT
AL WRIGHT
Van Horne
IA
I spent many long days with Wes in the kitchen at Lonestar. I was his Kitchen manager. He was always a good worker but better yet, became a good friend. I have been sharing many fond memories with old friends about Wes. He always knew how to make me laugh. Whether it was singing songs in complete jibberish because he had no idea what the words were. Or even pulling out the "infamous" Wes chicken dance:) He will be greatly missed and it has been an honor to have known him. It saddens my heart to know he is gone. My sympathy goes out to all who had the pleasure to know him and mostly to you, his family.
Libby Ortmann
North Liberty
IA
Wes was an amazing friend and co worker. I will remember his big smile and thoughtfulness. I am grateful that I was lucky enough to know Wes.
Melinda Smith
Iowa City
IA
Wes always made me laugh alot when i work at Lonestar. We always had the good time together. My favorite is when The crazy truck driver came and thought he she was werid and made me laugh and went to the store for him alot and watch him make lindsey laugh too.
Michelle Snyder
IA
My sincerest condolences to your family. I worked with Wes at Lonestar for almost 3 years. Such a wonderful, fun-loving person. He will be dearly missed.
Tara O'Donnell
Tiffin
IA
I grew up riding the bus with Wes but never got to know him well until I moved to the west side of Iowa City a few years ago and found out he was only a few blocks away. Wes always went out of his way to make me feel welcome at his place and I hope he felt the same way at mine. I will remember Wes as a genuine person that actually listened to what you had to say and, with his goofy energy, was always someone you wanted to have around. My best wishes go out to his family.
John Richards
Chicago
IL
Dave, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and youre family. The Thompsons , Jerry,Bonnie,Anthony,Thomas.
jerry thompson
IA
It's been along time but I will always remember the times we shared on family trips and holidays. The days at grandma dourghtys and all the fun we shared. I love you and every angel will watch over you now. God bless you Diane and family. Love you, Alisha
Alisha
marion
IA
So sorry for your family's loss. I enjoyed knowing Wes even if it was for a brief time. I enjoyed his smile and enthusiasm. Good guy, with a good heart. Hard to imagine his absence. Much too soon to say goodbye. -Kristy, Day Manager, Charlies, Coralville, Ia.
Kristy Joseph-Gerard
iowa city
IA
I was shocked to see this had happened in the paper today. I went to high school with Wes for the short time that he was at Maquoketa Valley. I hung out with him quite often, I remember my friend and I taking him home from school when he lived out by Bailey's Ford and our weekend bowling advetures we had when we were like 16. He was a great guy and I was just looking through my yearbook a day or 2 ago and saw his picture and wondered where he was and what he was up to these days. So shocked to hear of this and very sad at the same time. My thoughts and prayers are with you guys through this time of grieving.
Carrie O'Connell
Marion
IA
To the guy that I hated in the begining and love like a brother at the end. You will always be our bestman and there uncle! We Love ya Wes Ben Autumn, Richard,Little Diesel, and Oshisismagoshis
Autumn Coghlan
Cape Coral
FL
Thank You to everyone who are sharing their thoughts, rememberances, prayers, & wishes for all of our families at this time. This is an incredibly diffucult time for all of our extended family members. We all sincerely appreciate everyone's input of your love for Wesley. Thank You, again. Diane Nelson (Wes' Mom)
Diane Nelson
Manchester
IA
I will never forget how cute Wes was at Debbie and David's wedding! I fell in love with that little blonde headed boy in his tuxedo! It was so good seeing Wes at Jordon's graduation, even though I still picture him at about 6 years old...:) Wes was a GREAT kid, and you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Lisa Givens
Indianapolis
IN
Dear Diane and David, "Sincerest Condolences" My heart is hurting for you, all of you. I, also, lost my firstborn son, I know the pain... May ALL of your wonderful memories and your family, bring you peace... Sincerely, Cheryl
Cheryl (Haug) Zapf
Cedar Rapids
IA
Although we only met Wes one time when he came to our house with Christa ...I will always remember how he took the time and played baseball with my kids. He was such a fun, loving guy!! You have our deepest sympathy. There are no words to take away the pain you are feeling...but I hope in time the tears will lessen and the good memories will shine through.
Julie and Dave Capesius
LaMotte
IA
Dave Van Houten
Ely Ia
IA
I would like to thank everyone for the calls and emails,and messages on the guestbook.it is way to soon to have to say goodbye.i will miss him and his calls that allways started with Hey hows it going and his never ending energy.thanks again. Dave Van Houten and family
Dave Van Houten
Ely Ia
IA
I was shocked and saddened to hear about Wes' passing. I haven't seen him in a few years, but I do remember the time we spent together in Morse. We had so much fun. Wes was a great person and he always new how to make you laugh. We both went to school with him and this is just shocking. Our deepest sympathy goes out to the whole family. Nothing I say will take away your pain, but just know that Wes had so many friends and he was such a great person. He will always be watching over us. Our sympathy goes out to all of you.
Brandy (Gerlits) Krob & Joe Krob
Solon
IA
I am deeply saddened to hear of Wes's passing. I grew up with Wes since kindergarten. He is someone with a great sense of humor, big heart and a genuine friendly nature. My fondest memories of Wes are goofing around at school, laughing; he always made the funniest sounding voices. I remember having great conversations about what we aspired to be as grown ups. I also had many classes with him in high school. He enjoyed coming into Mrs. Finley's room and scaring the bejeezus out of me! He was sneaky! I last saw Wes 2 years ago when I coincidentally bumped into him visiting my friend Mike, not knowing Wes was his room mate. It was a great surprise :-) Wes I will never forget you as long as I live. My sincere condolences to Wes's family and friends.
Sarah J Smith
Iowa City
IA
I am so sorry to hear about the Wes's death. These tragedies are always so hard to understand. He was my daughter's good friend in high school. He was such a nice boy, always very nice to me and very friendly. Gail Conner
Gail
Iowa City
IA
Diana, I wonder if you remember me..I was your Marengo friend, when you would come and visit your Grandma. I haven't seen you since we were little girls, but wanted you to know how extremely saddened I was to see that you lost your son. I will be praying for you, that in time, your pain will heal.
Dru (Roggentien) Hummer
Amana
IA
Diane and family, We are so sorry to hear about Wesley. Life can be cruel, but someone needed him worse. Just keep on smiling and you head up. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Marv and Sandy
Marv and Sandy
MANCHESTER
IA
I worked with Wes, and he was honestly one of the first people to be genuinely nice to me when I was new. I will really miss him and his warm smile. I wish I would've gotten a chance to let him know how much his kindness meant to me. My deepest condolences go out to his family and close friends.
Michelle
Iowa City
IA
I have worked with Wes for the past few months and can say that he was a great guy to be around. It was rare to see Wes without a smile. He got along well with everyone at work and never missed a chance to laugh. Just last week I stayed after work and watched a bit of a football game with Wes. He told me about his hometown and his great family. He will be missed at The Vine. My thoughts and prayers are with you through this difficult time.
Sarah
Iowa City
IA
I met Wes when i was in High School, he was a very nice kid always laughing and smiling. He had a very unique laugh, Wes holds a special part in my heart and i will never forget him. my heart and prayers go out to all his family and friends.
Lindsey
North Liberty
IA
Dave and Duff- My heart goes out to you and your families. I remember Wes as a little tow-headed guy, always talking and getting into things. He must have brought you so much joy. You have my deepest sympathy.
Lyn Miller (Dougherty Trachta)
Oxford
IA
I would like to send my deepest sympathy to the family of Wes. I knew Wes for a very breif time when he attended Maquoketa Valley Highschool. He was an amazing kid back then. I lost touch with him after that. RIP Wes you are loved and missed by many!
Rachel Rave
Manchester
IA
I first met Wes through friends that were employed with him at Lone Star. Over 2008 we became good friends, and ever since. They're very dear to me and so was he.
Nic Bargren
Tiffin
IA
As the angels wept we said goodby to our beloved Wes. You have no idea what comfort the messages bring as we read all the heartfelt comments. The family thanks everyone who remembered Wes with us.He was a very special young man with a very big heart and bigger smile. Thank you. Thank you. Aunt Linda
Linda Catlett
Cedar Rapids
IA
I met Wes working at Lonestar and will never forget all the memories and time that we spent together. From the time that we dated to just being great friends....i will never forget him! I had the great chance of meeting his families and I love you all very much!Wes was a great person who loved to laugh and give out hugs. He will never be forgotten!
Christa Duhme
iowa city
IA
I have known Wes since school..never got along with him much then until he moved in with patrick across the hall from me..partied with him and he even hung out with my dad. I gave him a picture I drew of a zombie girl and sometimes we would sit and draw together..watch movies..all of that..I will remember him making me laugh and doing crazy things at all the parties..I am so sorry for the loss...he will be missed and remembered
mary huber
Anamosa
IA
A bright smile a loving heart. was taken away left us torn apart.So many questions left unanswered,so many dreams shattered. So many lives you did touch,all we can say is we will all miss you so much. my heart goes out to his family and friends
Nena
Anamosa
IA
thanks to everyone who attended the visitation and service for Wes. I wish that I could of had more time to talk to friends and family. the number of people was overwhelming and I hope that I did not overlook anyone even if was only a touch,wave or a smile. if I did I am truly sorry. to all of wasleys friends I encourage you to call me for any reason if only to talk or share a story. you can find me in the cedsr rapids phone book or get my number from another of wesleys friends. again thanks to all for everything. my # is 319-841-2034
David Van Houten
ely
IA
God, Bless Wes We loved you from the moment you arrived. As a baby we called you our gooney little boy. You were always smiling and happy, never afraid to give a hug. You were inquisitive, fun loving, thoughtful and careful not to hurt the feelings of others. Wesley you touched many in your short life, but you will not be forgotten. We all have wonderful memories of our time with you. Wes, you are our sacred angel now. Love Always, Aunt Julie, Uncle Leigh, Becky and families XOXOXO
Julie Haug
Fairfax
IA
David & Diane I am very sorry for your loss of Wesley. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this very sad time. Vicky Wilson(Guillory)
Vicky Guillory
La Grange
TX
David and family, Just need to share one more thought. The service was so nice. Not sugar coated, it is what it is. Wes was always so much fun. Haylie, Shelby and Taylor remember him picking on them and having fun, too. He always gave me a hug, no matter how long it had been since we had seen him. His short time here will be cherished by all who had the chance to know him. We will always keep him in our hearts. Even though we aren't "family" your family has made us feel that way. Our love goes out to all of you. Steve and Pat
Steve Wright
Cedar Rapids
IA
Shirlene called us today about Wesley's passing, we are so sorry. It's been years since we have seen you guys. But just wanted to let you know we are thinking of you and our prayers are with you. God Bless, Mike, Sheryl, Brandy & Seth Anderson
Mike & Sheryl Anderson
Cameron
MO
Aweek has passed since Wes left us. It's hard to fathom. Our hearts have been changed forever in each of us. Thank you doesn't seem adequate. The kindness, understanding, words of sympathy, caring & worry for all of us, has been overwhelming. To Ben C: Wes' wonderful friend who came from Florida. Please let me know that you returned home to your family safely. To Dru Ann: f course I remember the friend with the most awesome pony-tail I had ever seen. What wonderful memories! To Lyn d.t.m. One of the dearest friends I've ever known!To so many others, when I couldn't put a name to a face...You are SO appreciated in in our hearts! To ALL of Wes' friends & co-workers. There's a little bit of Wes in all of you... Remember his smile! And to our families & friends who are with us at any given moment. We need & love all of you! If anyone would like to call, you can reach me @ 563-927-2705. Take care, & God Bless each & everyone of you. With sincere appreciation, Dave, Diane, Courtney, Ben Nelson, & all of our families.
Diane Nelson
manchester
IA
Diane and David ~ We hardly knew Wes, but from what we've read in your guestbook, you can truly be proud of such an outstanding, well loved, young man. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time. Just remember, Wes will always be with you in your hearts-----forever. Love always, Pat and Gordon Tracey Ft. Myers, Florida God Bless you and your family.