Dwite Orvil Fernald, son of Orvil and Lillian Fernald died April 11th, 2024 surrounded by his children and loved ones.  He is reunited with his soulmate, Karen. He was born on November 19, 1944 in Independence, Iowa.

He was married to the love of his life on August 26,1967 and his quiver was full with 5 children: Lynette (Steve), Sherry (Frank), Dwite (Kim), Amy (Dustin), Kimberly (Peter). He was blessed with many wonderful grandchildren: Mathew (Ashley), Nicholas (Melissa), Jacob (Holly), Cameron (Amanda), Derek (Katelyn), Alisha, Tylor (Trelbie), Adam, Gaven, Cassie, Kaila, Sawyer, Ashley, Lillyan, Jaxson, Elijah, Layla, Greyson, Adrien, Jose, Amy Liz, James, Jazzmyn, Jonny and Addy. Great grandchildren Allen, Carter, Fernanda, Gideon, Jaxson, Aubrie, Stella, River. He taught us the meaning of family, welcomed our friends, strangers, blood or not as family. Dad/Papa to Tina, Adam, Katelyn, Jess, Parker, Mikayla, Kassidi, Kenny, Jackie, Joe, CJ, Drew, Katie, Steve, Savana, Cooper, David and many others.

Preceded in death by his wife, parents, in-laws, siblings, friends, and grandchildren.

Our father was our best friend, and an amazing Papa. He began his career working on the family farm, was a radio operator in the United States Army, Part Owner of West and Son's, Owner of Triple D Automotive and eventually retired to care for his wife Karen. He loved all things football especially the Chicago Bears and the Iowa Hawkeyes. His grandchildren were his world, there was always a smile on his face when he was with them and they never heard the word No from him. He took joy in feeding other's whether it was cooking his famous stew, ribs, going to a diner or out for ice cream. He pushed us to soar, picked us up when we fell, and guided us on the path to who we are today.

It never failed he would always say "Take my billfold," "where's my coffee," "what's for dessert," "are we getting ice cream," "where are we going to lunch," "this coffee is cold," "you're fine I don't feel a thing."

Papa created a legacy. He taught us how to live through God, love without judgement, have courage and strength, work hard, care for others, and always say I love you. We will all miss him greatly, but know that he prepared us for this journey by providing us friends and family that will love us all. He has won the race and is now dancing in heaven with mom.

A private viewing/service will be held for immediate family.  We ask that if you feel led to celebrate Dad's life please do so by spending time with someone you love or haven't seen in a while sharing a meal, going out for ice cream or coffee.  Feel free to share your celebration with us by sharing a photo with #rememberpapadwite.

Arrangements were completed by the Butala Funeral Home in Sycamore, IL. To sign the online guest book, go to www.butalafuneralhomes.com