Dorothy “Ileene” Wehrle, 98, of Cowden, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 12:05 a.m. on May 3, 2026, at Robinson Rehab and Nursing in Robinson. She was born on February 23, 1928, in rural Herrick, the daughter of Hestin and Lottie (Brown) Richards.
On February 23, 1946, she married the love of her life, Clyde Wehrle, in Herrick, and together they built a marriage grounded in faith, service, and unwavering commitment. Their life together was blessed with family, shared purpose, and a deep sense of mission. Ileene and Clyde were partners in every sense of the word, and their example of love and dedication remained an inspiration to those around them throughout the years.
A devoted housewife and beautician, Ileene embraced many roles throughout her life. She found joy in the simple and meaningful things that filled a home with warmth and comfort. She loved to bake, crochet, and cook, and she took great pride in caring for others. Her talents were matched by her generous spirit, and she was happiest when she could offer help, encouragement, or a welcoming presence to family, friends, and neighbors.
Her Christian faith was central to who she was and guided her daily life. Ileene was an active member of the Cowden United Methodist Church, where she taught Sunday school and assisted with vacation Bible school. Her faith was not only spoken but lived in her actions, and she shared it through service, compassion, and a sincere love for others. Alongside Clyde, she helped lead nearly 100 missionary trips to locations including Mexico, Peru, Haiti, Africa, Costa Rica, and Arizona. This work became one of the great callings of her life, and it reflected her heart for helping people near and far.
In her later years, Ileene continued to enjoy the quiet pleasures that brought her comfort and happiness. She loved reading the Bible, coloring, crafting, reading cards, drinking mocha coffee, and visiting with friends and family. These moments reflected her gentle nature and her appreciation for connection, creativity, and faith. Even as her years advanced, she remained interested in the lives of those she loved and continued to be a source of encouragement and warmth.
She is survived by her daughter, Jan (Dennis) Wehrle of Scottsdale, Arizona; her sons, Calvin Wehrle of Galveston, Texas, Mike (Connie) Wehrle of Cowden, and Mark (Kim) Wehrle of Granite City. She also leaves behind numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense pride and joy.
Ileene was preceded in death by her parents, husband, three brothers and one sister.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at Lockart-Green Funeral Home in Cowden. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow in Blankenship Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family request memorial donations be made in Ileene’s name to Robinson Rehab and Nursing Activity Dept and may be mailed to Lockart-Green Funeral Home, 302 W. Main St., Shelbyville, IL 62565.
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