Donald Earl "Donny" VanGorp

Donald Earl “Donny” VanGorp, 71, died Sunday, January 18, 2015 at Iowa Methodist Hospital in Des Moines.

Donny was born August 1, 1943 in Knoxville, Iowa to Clarence and Georgia (Dietrick) VanGorp. He attended Altoona High School, graduating in 1964. Following graduation, Donny enlisted in the U.S. Army and served from 1965 – 1967, during the Vietnam War.

Returning to Des Moines, he met the love of his life, Mary Erickson. Three months later they united in marriage on June 15, 1968. They have been inseparable ever since, enjoying 46 prosperous years together.

Donny began work at Meredith in 1969 as a press utility operator. He was employed there for 33 years. He then went on to work for Walmart from 2003 – 2013. He spent the last years being “Papa” to his loving family. Donny had a golden heart and was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He loved spending time with his family. He also enjoyed any outdoor activity, trains, NASCAR, and cowboys. Donny liked watching westerns and action or war movies. His family and his many friends will always miss him.

Donald is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Mary; daughter, Ann (David) Martin; son, Matthew VanGorp; granddaughters, Tiffany (Troy) Stanley and Ashley (Dustin) Allen; great-grandchildren, Levi Stanley, Avah Allen, Autumn Stanley, and Tristan Allen; sister-in-law, Shirley Erickson; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and coworkers.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Richard “Rick” Graham; daughter, Erica VanGorp; mother-in-law, Marcia; father-in-law, Earl; brother-in-law, Frank Erickson; and sister-in-law, Phyllis Lovell.

There will be a celebration of his life from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, January 23, 2015 at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family.

Condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com.

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