Dr. Thomas F. Wetzell Sr., 83

Dr. Thomas F. Wetzell Sr.

Albert Lea Dr. Thomas Fleming Wetzell Sr., age 83, of Albert Lea, formerly of Wells, died Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, at Mayo Clinic Health System-Mankato, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

A memorial service was held Saturday, Nov. 28, 2015, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Wells, Pastor Mary Iverson officiated.

Tom (Doc) was born April 1, 1932 in Sterling, Illinois, the son of Lyle and Ruth (Fleming) Wetzell. Tom was united in marriage to Jean Hawkins on Aug. 10, 1951, in Milledgeville, Illinois. He graduated in 1956 from Iowa State University with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. He started his own practice in Alden in 1956. In 1972, Tom purchased the Wells Vet Clinic which grew to become South Central Veterinary Associates. He was awarded Minnesota Veterinarian of the Year in 1987. Tom was a loyal member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Wells. His strong faith was demonstrated by his participation in the church choir and the Promise Keepers men’s group. Tom was also passionate about his community, where he was an active member of the Wells Lions and the Wells Area Food Shelf. He loved his time at the family cabin on West Jefferson Lake, and was an avid fisherman. Tom had a generous heart and a love for life and his family.

Tom is survived by his children, Tom (Pam) Wetzell, of Cleveland, Steve (Nancy Weidenfeller) Wetzell, of Minnetonka, Tricia (Wayne) Christopher, of Jackson; six grandchildren: Chris (Stephanie) Wetzell, of Medina, Megan (Chad) Thorp, of Victoria, Ben (Amanda) Wetzell, of Jordan, Kyle Christopher, Jacob Christopher and Cole Christopher, all of Jackson; eight great-grandchildren, Beckett and Jordyn Wetzell; Caleb, Reed and Quinn Thorp; Eli, Peyton and Brady Wetzell; special friend, Barb Sletten of Albert Lea; sister, Alice Newton, of Sterling, Illinois.

He is preceded in death by his parents; wife Jean; daughter-in-law, Nancy Wetzell; sister Margaret.

Bruss-Heitner Funeral Home of Wells is assisting the family. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.brussheitner.com