Wilbert Carl Sick

Wilbert Carl Sick, son of Alfred Sick and Frieda (Schmidt) Sick, was born on October 8, 1932, at his family's farmhouse northwest of Avoca, Iowa. Wilbert was baptized and confirmed on December 14, 1952, in Avoca, Iowa. His faith remained an important part of his life, and he was a longtime member of Shelby Presbyterian Church before later joining Shelby United Lutheran Church, where he was a member for many years.

He attended grade school in Kirkman and graduated from Shelby Community School. Wilbert continued his education at Iowa State University and Dana College, and later attended the University of North Colorado. His love of learning led him to a career in education, where he taught high school science at Riverside High School in Oakland, Iowa until retirement in 1994. Even while teaching, Wilbert remained closely connected to farming, balancing his professional life with his lifelong commitment to agriculture.

Wilbert proudly served his country in the United States Army and was honorably discharged. Following his military service, he returned home and began farming, purchasing his own farm and dedicating himself to the land. He farmed for more than 70 years, growing crops, raising livestock, and building a life rooted in perseverance and stewardship. After retiring from teaching, he continued to farm, fulfilling his wish to remain on the land alongside his wife.

On June 12, 1955, Wilbert married Maxine Ruth Sorensen at Wheatridge Methodist Church in Colorado. Their marriage spanned 68 years, a testament to their love, partnership, and shared devotion to family. Wilbert was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

Outside of his work, Wilbert had many interests and talents. He enjoyed woodworking, tractor collecting, and rebuilding equipment. In his younger years, he played the saxophone and was a skilled pilot, flying a small airplane until the early 1970s. Known as a good scholar and a man of quiet determination, Wilbert was respected for his knowledge, work ethic, and integrity. Wilbert spent his later years in Shelby, Iowa, where he remained active and connected to his community.

Wilbert passed away peacefully at his home in Shelby, Iowa on Monday, December 8, 2025 attaining the age of 93 years and 2 months. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Frieda Sick; wife, Maxine Sick; son, Brion Sick, and brothers, Edwin Sick, Melvin Sick and Alfred Sick, Jr.

He is survived by his children, Wade (Brandy) Sick of Lorimor, IA, Tammy (Steve) Trebesch of Hamburg, MN; 6 grandchildren, Chase (Kelsey) Sick of Big Sky, MT, Bailey Tomash of Bozeman, MT, Jake (Samantha) Trebesch of Arlington, MN, Eastyn, Emerson and Ellington Sick of Lorimor, IA; 4 step-grandchildren, Jaiden Stephens of West Des Moines, IA, Jarryn Stephens of Creston, IA, Jennifer (Billy) Weyer of Waite Park, MN, Miranda (Pete) Workman of Sartell, MN; 3 great-grandchildren; 2 step great-grandchildren; other relatives and many friends.