Richard John Wernli

Richard “Rick” John Wernli, 71, of Perry, passed away on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at UnityPoint Health – Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 19, 2025, with visitation one hour prior beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, Perry Chapel, located at 1721 Park Street, Perry, Iowa. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the John Stoddard Cancer Center, 1221 Pleasant Street, Des Moines, IA 50309, in Rick’s memory. Online condolences may be shared at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Rick was born on April 15, 1954, in Perry, Iowa, the son of Stanley LeRoy and Vivian Iola (Liles) Wernli. He graduated from Perry High School with the Class of 1972. He served his country in the United States Army Reserve. He was also a past member of the Perry Elk’s Lodge #407.

Rick was a passionate, die-hard Cyclones fan. He enjoyed camping, especially the annual trips he cherished each year with his children and grandchildren. He loved his family above all else, and his grandchildren were his pride and joy. His favorite title in life was “Grandpa.”

Rick is survived by his loving children: Jeff (Jamie) Wernli of Altoona, Michael (Hayley) Wernli of Waukee, and Stacy (Eric) Feenstra of Ankeny; his grandchildren: Colton, Carter, Kenley, Rylinne, Paisley, Lucy, Brianna, Scarlett, Harper, Carson, Logan, Owen, and Eisley; his siblings: Dennis (Deb) Wernli of Woodward and Tami (Ed) Ebel of Dixon, Illinois; his loving partner, Martina Smidt, and her children, Heath and Cherise, and her grandchildren, Ashley, Bailey, and Colton; as well as other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley and Vivian Wernli, and his brother, Jim Wernli.