Obituary for Barry W. Wehrs

Barry William Wehrs was born July 12, 1960, to Larry and Bernadine (Youncke) Wehrs. Barry attended St. Paul’s Ev. Lutheran School and graduated from Bangor High School in 1978. His life changed when he met his soulmate, Kelly (whom he affectionately called "Grace"), at a race party. Along with Kelly, God also brought her twin daughters, Desiree and Daphne, whom Barry instantly loved. Their life together was filled with joy and included Saturday night trips to the racetrack, Sunday drives after church, family game nights (Chicka Boom being a favorite), cave tours, and many trips to Wall Drug. Wall Drug inspired much of Barry's home which he coined as "The Funny Farm," featuring a giant birdbath, a collection of his race cars, his favorite Looney Tune Wile E. Coyote, and many of their beloved animals. They also enjoyed hunting for antiques and treasures at garage sales and flea markets, as well as the 100-mile rummage sale.

Racing was Barry's lifelong passion. He began with go-karting, setting an uncontested track record at Columbus 151 Speedway, and later became a crew chief for various cars and drivers, winning numerous championships. Through racing he forged countless friendships within this community that lasted a lifetime.

Halloween was Barry's favorite holiday. He was always in costume, even at work. He was a staple fixture at the Bangor First Responders' Halloween party and other contests, winning many with his dedicated performances. If you ever needed a spare hand, one always seemed to be “hanging out” from the back of his Nomad.1

He will be remembered by those who knew him for his memorable sayings: "Even a broken clock is right twice a day!" and "Say the magic word!" He was also remarkably knowledgeable on a wide range of topics; his knowhow will be sorely missed.

Barry worked at Wehrs Chevrolet and grew from his childhood "broom-pushing" days to Service and Parts Manager (Frosty Line 1). In this position he served his community diligently, Monday through Saturday, ensuring everyone kept rolling. Barry would like to give one last thank you to his loyal customers through the years. The family also extends a heartfelt thank you to Jeff for his generous help and support throughout the years as well as Dr. Ticku and the Mayo Clinic Cancer Department and Hospice staff. Barry made plans to donate his body to the Mayo Clinic Health System-Rochester, Anatomy Bequest Program for medical research with the hope that it may help others.

Despite his long illness, Barry's faith in God's plan never wavered. He remained steadfast and strong. Surrounded by loved ones, he passed away peacefully on June 2, 2025, and entered his eternal home with his Lord and Savior.

Barry is survived by his beloved wife of 35 years, Kelly; daughters, Desiree (Michael) Linnehan and Daphne (Clay) Harrison; grandchildren, Waycee, Wylie, Jett, and Kyler; his dog, Tag; parents, Larry and Bernadine Wehrs; mother-in-law, Roslyn LeMoine; sisters, Karla (Tom) Thurk and Kasha Wehrs; brothers, Scott (Pamela) Wehrs, Chad (Brenda) Wehrs, and Shane (Shanna) Wehrs; nieces and nephews, Allison, Mariah, Austin (Tanner), Karyn (Tanner), Kayla (Kyle), Dylan (Lexy), Mason, and Camden; and a great-nephew, Charlie.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Lloyd and Charlotte Youncke; and Harry and Edna Wehrs.

"I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith." – 2 Timothy 4:7

To honor Barry’s wishes, there will be no public funeral service, but it will be available to watch online at St. Paul’s Ev. Lutheran Church in Bangor WI. On Saturday, September 20, 2025, the family will be hosting a public Celebration of Life for Barry at the Club 16, in Sparta, from 3pm to 8pm. Everyone is welcome to join us at this time. We would like to encourage everyone to raise a glass in his honor and continue to keep his loving memory alive. His legacy will live on through the stories shared, the racing knowledge he imparted, and the endless laughter he inspired. He will be immensely missed and forever loved.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Wehrs’ family in the care of Fredrickson Funeral Homes and Crematory, P.O. Box 851, West Salem, WI, 54669.

Online condolences may be offered at this site.