Rex Whannell

Rex Andrew Whannell was born on April 2, 1947, at the hospital in Manning, Iowa, to Andrew “Bruce” and Mildred (Buck) Whannell. He spent the first 12 years of his life on a farm south of Shelby, Iowa, and attended Shelby School.

In 1959, the family moved to the “White Star Farm,” located east of Harlan on Highway 44. Rex attended school in Harlan and graduated with the Class of 1968. During high school, he was active in football, wrestling, and the Harlan High FFA Chapter. He was also involved in 4-H events and was a member of the Center Comers 4-H Club. In addition to helping his dad on the farm, he held a full-time job at the Pork Plant east of Harlan. In 1969, the family moved to a farm located northeast of Harlan.

A dedicated racing enthusiast, Rex was involved with the Shelby County Speedway for many years, working as a track official for weekly races—an involvement that ultimately led him to meet his wife. Rex was united in marriage to Mary Kae Ossenkop on October 3, 1992, at the United Presbyterian Church in Denison.

Rex joined the Masonic Lodge in 1989 and later became a member of the York Rite Bodies, including Chapter, Council, and Commandery. He served as Worshipful Master for three years and presided over the cornerstone ceremony for the Therkildsen Center, completed in 2003. Rex was also an active member of the Shrine and the Harlan Shrine T-Patrol, serving two years as President.

He enjoyed attending the Iowa State Fair Convention and visiting county fairs across the state. Known for his willingness to lend a helping hand, Rex was always there for longtime friends and new acquaintances alike. He served on the Harlan Fair Board for 17 years and in 2007, he was honored with the Shelby County Fair Hall of Fame Award.

Rex continued to operate the family farm, perform custom farm work, and maintain employment off the farm. He drove a bus for Elm Crest and worked part-time for the Department of Transportation doing snow removal. He loved attending high school sporting events, especially football, with Mary Kae. Together, they also enjoyed many trips with the Shriners.

Rex passed away on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the Salem Lutheran Home in Elk Horn, at the age of 78. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bruce and Mildred Whannell. He is survived by his wife, Mary Kae Whannell of Harlan; his sister, Rhonda and her husband John Mock of Harlan; numerous nieces and nephews; extended family members; and many dear friends.

Visitation with the Family Greeting Friends will be held on Sunday, July 27, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., with a Masonic Service to begin at 6:00 p.m., all at Heartland Funeral Home in Harlan. Funeral Services will be Monday, July 28, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. also at Heartland Funeral Home in Harlan. Burial will be in the Harlan Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the family.