Sylvan Alfred Kenkel

Sylvan Alfred Kenkel was born to William and Anna (Wingert) Kenkel on May 24, 1939 on the family farm outside of Panama, Iowa. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church where he remained a lifelong member. Sylvan graduated from St. Mary’s Catholic School with the class of 1957. In December of 1961, Sylvan was enlisted in the United States Army where he proudly served until December of 1963.

On June 18, 1966, Sylvan and Joyce Gross were united in marriage at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa. To this union, four children were born: Jennifer, Laura, Jeffrey and Terry. The family made their home in Panama, Iowa where Sylvan worked as a farmer raising livestock and crops. Sylvan continued farming for his entire life and in the last 10 years of his life, farming with his son, Terry. He enjoyed working with his wife, Joyce, farming and gardening together. They also loved spending time watching the birds and squirrels.

Sylvan loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. Over the years they made many memories traveling the country in their camper. Sylvan and Joyce spent many years wintering in Texas. He was known for having a sweet tooth and enjoying ice cream or candy from his candy drawer. Sylvan often played cards with his friends and family and everyone knew he made the best popcorn. He was always known to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Sylvan also spent time volunteering for the Panama Fire Department.

Sylvan passed away peacefully at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, Iowa on Saturday, December 27, 2025 attaining the age of 86 years, 7 months and 3 days. He was preceded in death by his parents William and Anna Kenkel; grandchild, Jorgan Kenkel; sister, Lauretta Kenkel; brother, Michael Kenkel and sisters-in-law, Patricia Kenkel and Joyce Kenkel.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Joyce Kenkel of Panama, IA; children, Jennifer (Richard) Wolf of Omaha, NE; Laura (Dan) Wingert of Panama, IA; Jeffrey (Tonya) Kenkel of Belleville, WI; Terry (Karen) Kenkel of Panama, IA; 13 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; siblings Fr. Leonard Kenkel of Harlan, IA; Sylvia Kenkel OSB of Atchison, KS; Damian Kenkel of Panama, IA; David Kenkel of Panama, IA; Eugene (Patricia) Kenkel of Panama, IA; sister-in-law Patricia Kenkel of Burr Ridge, IL other relatives and many friends.