Wesley Lee Sackmann

The Rev. Wesley Lee Sackmann died peacefully on Monday, February 16, 2026, at Eliseo Health Center in Tacoma, Washington, at the age of 94.

Wes was born in Turtle Lake, North Dakota, on July 29, 1931, to Theodore and Marie (Walcker) Sackmann. He spent his early life in Mercer, North Dakota. In 1944, the family moved to Eureka, South Dakota, where they owned and operated a grocery store. After high school, Wes moved to Iowa to attend Wartburg College and Theological Seminary. There, he met Dorothy Stone. The pair married on August 29, 1954, and went on to have three children. 

On July 21, 1957, Wes was ordained into the Lutheran church. He was called to serve as pastor for three congregations: Glendale Evangelical Lutheran in Seattle, Washington, 1957-65; Mt. Si Lutheran in North Bend, Washington, 1965-84; and Trinity Lutheran in Hermiston, Oregon, 1984-96. After retirement, he continued to minister as a substitute pastor for local congregations. Wes and Dorothy moved to the Eliseo Senior Living community in Tacoma, Washington, in 2019. 

Wes lived a life filled with Love — love for his faith, his community, and his family. He cherished connection and advocated for charities that provide shelter and communal gathering spaces. Whether ministering at the church, sitting around a card table, cheering for youth and sporting events, or finding peace in the mountains, Wes always brought encouragement and a generous spirit that radiated joy. He loved his family fiercely, and that love will continue to echo in our lives. 

Wes was preceded in death by his parents and sister. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy; children Paul (Peggy) of Tacoma, Washington, Steve (Lynn) of Philomath, Oregon, and Mary (Terry) of Snoqualmie, Washington; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. 

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Resurrection Lutheran Church, 4301 Browns Point Blvd. NE, Tacoma, Washington. Interment will be in Eureka, South Dakota. Memorials may be made to Holden Village of Chelan, Washington; Habitat for Humanity; or your local place of worship.