Frederick “Fred” Franklin Wells of Packwood, passed away at the age of 84 on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at Highland Ridge Care Center in Williamsburg. Born on March 20, 1941, in Ottumwa, Iowa, Fred was the son of Charles Franklin and Francis Lee Woolums Wells. He was raised on the family farm in Packwood, where he developed a deep love for the land and the community that would last a lifetime.
Fred’s early life on the farm shaped his strong work ethic and community spirit. After graduating from Packwood High School, he continued to work on the farm and in 1965, he joined the United States Army Reserves, serving his country with dedication. On June 12, 1966, Fred married his beloved wife, Carol Teeter, at the Fairfield Methodist Church, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and hard work.
A lifelong farmer, Fred took pride in raising cattle and pigs, as well as growing corn and beans. His passion for agriculture was evident in everything he did, and he was always willing to lend a helping hand to his neighbors and friends. Fred’s commitment to his community was unwavering, as he served as a lifelong member of the Packwood Volunteer Fire Department, the Packwood Christian Church, and was a member of the former Packwood Lions Club.
Fred’s interests extended beyond farming. In his younger years, he enjoyed bowling and was actively involved in his children’s 4H projects. He cherished the family’s summer vacation trips and family reunions at the farm. An avid reader, Fred also loved attending Red Power Shows and taking tractor rides around Southeast Iowa. Above all, his greatest joy was spending time with his family, who were the center of his world.
Fred’s legacy lives on through his loving family. He is survived by his wife, Carol, of Williamsburg; his son, Andrew Wells (Gina) of Fairfield; his daughter, Lori Wells-Adamson (Mark) of South Amana; his brother, Robert Wells of Ottumwa; and his six grandchildren, Cassandra Adamson-Van Veen (Logan), Ethan Adamson (Olivia), Claudia Adamson, Drew Wells, Carson Wells (Autumn Lisk), and Sydney Wells. Fred was also blessed with a great-granddaughter, Iylee, who brought him immense joy. His blessings continued with a wonderful niece and nephew, Kim Wells (Brenizer) and Brad Wells. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of several other relatives and countless friends who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Visitation for Fred will open at 2:00 PM with the family present from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Monday, May 12, 2025, at Cranston Family Funeral Home in Fairfield. A memorial service celebrating Fred’s life will be held on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at the funeral home starting at 10am, with burial immediately following in Packwood Cemetery. Memorials in Fred’s honor are the Packwood Fire Department or Essence of Life Hospice. These may be left at the funeral home or mailed to the family at P.O. Box 189, Fairfield, IA 52556. Friends may leave online condolences at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.
Fred’s life was a testament to the values of hard work, community service, and family. Those who knew him will remember his warm smile, his generous spirit, his unwavering dedication to the people and the land he loved so dearly and his farmer wave.
