Wendlin Kiefel was born on December 29, 1921 in Linton, North Dakota and passed away on March 18, 2010 at Portland, Oregon, at the age of 88.
Wendlin proudly served his country in the United States Army during World War II, in the Army Recon Unit and in the Corps of Engineers. He was an Army Tech. Fifth Grade and served with the 1276th Engineer Battalion, Company A.
He worked as a locksmith and finish carpenter for the Portland Public Schools and was an Elk for over 25 years.
Final interment services, with full military honors, were held on March 26 at the Willamette National Cemetery in Portland.
Present to honor this member of the “greatest generation” were Patriot Guard Riders and an American Legion Honor Guard. The Riders formed a line of American flags along the roadway leading to the committal shelter and the Legionaires stood at attention as the hearse arrived.
Wendlin’s grandchildren removed the flag covered casket from the hearse and moved it into the shelter. Final prayers were said and a Catholic Priest led the gathered family and friends in the Lord’s Prayer. The Patriot Guard Riders enveloped the shelter, during the final prayers, with a line of American flags.
The Legion rifle detail fired three volleys of fire, representing Honor, Duty and Country. A bugler played taps and the American flag which had draped the silver casket was folded into a tight triangle and presented to his wife, Bernadine, on behalf of a grateful country and the United States Army.
Wendlin Kiefel was then laid to rest in the rolling green hills of the cemetery as the American flag flew at half-mast, in his honor, at the high point of the cemetery.
Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 57 years, two daughters, one son, 5 grandchildren and many other dear family and friends.
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