Bernard B. “Bernie” Hesse IV, 87, of Fort Madison, IA, passed away at 1:40 p.m. on Wednesday, April 12, 2023 at The Kensington. He was born on May 16, 1935 in Fort Madison, IA to Bernard B. & Dorothy D. Hilliard Hesse III. He married LaRita M. LeHew on November 24, 1982 in Fort Madison, IA. He owned and operated B.B. Hesse & Sons Clothing Store in Fort Madison for many years and was a member of the Fort Madison Jaycees & Duck’s Unlimited. He was the oldest living member of the Fort Madison Elk’s Lodge and was very active in the Fort Madison Historical Society in his earlier years.
Bernie is survived by: his wife: LaRita Hesse of Fort Madison, IA; 4-daughters: D.J. (Les) Weisbrod of Dallas, TX, Franchelle Cox of Fort Madison, IA, Trina Martinez of Tucson, AZ & Cozette (Pat) Drapeau of Phoenix, AZ; 3-sons: Bernard (Melanie) Hesse V of Rowlett, TX, Bill (Kristine) Bolton of San Antonio, TX & Craig (Michelle) Bolton of Mesa, AZ; 7-grandchildren & 1-great grandson. He was preceded in death by his parents and 1-son, Francis Hesse.
A visitation will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 16, 2023 at King-Lynk Funeral Home & Crematory. The funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, April 17, 2023 at King-Lynk Funeral Home & Crematory with Pastor Dave Poland officiating. Burial will be at Oakland Cemetery. A memorial has been established for the Fort Madison Historical Society or the Fort Madison Elk’s Lodge. Online condolences to Bernie’s family may be left at the King-Lynk Funeral Home & Crematory website: www.kinglynk.com.
