Wesley Alvin Zaugg

Wesley Alvin Zaugg, 85, of Yutan, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. Wes was born on June 2, 1940, to Alvin and Alice Zaugg. He grew up on a farm north of Yutan alongside his brother Charles, and sister, Lois. As a young boy, Wes loved farming with his dad, where he learned the value of hard work. He had a special fondness for animals, especially dogs, and his pet lamb that famously thought it was a dog. Standing tall at 6'6", Wes developed a love for basketball and earned the nickname, "High Pockets." He graduated from Yutan High School in 1957 and went on to serve in the Air National Guard from 1960 to 1967. Wes's adventurous spirit led him to stock car racing, where he also found the love of his life, Patricia Ann Kirchman. They married on January 26, 1963, and together raised three daughters: Shelly, Marsha, and Cindy. Wes and Pat shared many wonderful adventures together, traveling with friends, laughing with their car club, and attending vintage car shows that fueled Wes's love for classic cars and his lifelong need for speed. Wes dedicated 40 years to working at Western Electric as a tool maker starting at the age of 18. In addition to his long career, Wes also farmed on the family homestead. You could find Wes tinkering in his shop, which led to unforgettable stories-like the accident that left him with a finger he humorously used to "point around corners." Faith was a cornerstone of Wes's life. He was a devoted member of St. John's Lutheran Church, serving for many years on the council and numerous committees, instilling a strong faith in the Lord within his family. Above all, Wes loved his family and friends deeply. His smile, sense of humor, and kind heart left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Wes was preceded in death by his wife Patricia Zaugg, parents, Alvin and Alice Zaugg, brother Charles and sister-in-law Donna Zaugg of Yutan, sister Lois Dawson of St. Louis, sister-in-law Jean Brown of Fremont. He is survived by daughters, Shelly and Brian Steinkruger of Yutan, Marsha and John Badders of Omaha, Cindy and Shannon Pickworth of Lenexa KS; 8 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; brother-in-law Ron Dawson of St. Louis, sister-in-law Francis Zaugg; brother-in-laws Richard Kirchman and Wilma of Cedar Bluffs, brother-in-law Jim Brown of Fremont.

Wesley Alvin Zaugg

June 2, 1940 - September 4, 2025