Willis R. Handt

Willis Ray Handt, 93, of Mason City, Iowa, passed from this earthly life to his heavenly home on Thursday, December 18, 2025. A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 419 N Delaware. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Interment will be held in Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery. Memorials can be directed to the family of Willis Handt.

Willis was born on February 7, 1932, on the family farm, to Herman and Karoline (Troge) Handt, the youngest of six children. He attended country school, then Charles City Junior High, where he met Shielah Bird. They graduated together from Charles City High School in 1951, and were married in 1952. Willis served in the U.S. Air Force 1951-1954. After being honorably discharged, they settled in Mason City. There Willie and Shielah were blessed with two children, Sandy and Brad, and three loving grandchildren. The family enjoyed many special times together. Willie was a faithful member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church for all his years in Mason City. He served in choir and bell choir, as a crucifer, and with “money counters.” He participated in many groups and performed many duties. He worked at Kayenay Engraving Co. as a lithographer until retiring, then worked part-time at Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery. He enjoyed camping, archery, playing games, many building projects, and fixing almost anything. He especially loved fishing anytime with family and friends!

The family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks to all those who cared for Willis through the years, especially his VA team, his home care providers, and his St. Croix Hospice team.

Willis is survived by his wife of 73 years, Shielah; daughter Sandra (Ken) Kline; son Brad (Connie) Handt; his dear grandchildren; special nieces, nephews, and many other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, and sisters.