Delbert McGuire
March 15, 1949 — January 22, 2026
Delbert McGuire, age 76, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away on January 22, 2026. He was born on March 15, 1949, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Levi and Hazel McGuire.
Delbert attended East High School, where he was a standout football player and ran track, setting multiple athletic records. He later served his country honorably in the United States Marine Corps. During his tour in Vietnam, he earned several decorated medals, including a Purple Heart. His service reflected courage, sacrifice, and a deep love for his country.
Following his military service, Delbert continued his education at Marshalltown Community College and Simpson College. He later rejoined the military and completed a tour of service in Germany.
Delbert worked throughout the Des Moines community, including with the Animal Rescue League and Northwestern Bell, and was fondly known as everyone’s favorite cable guy on the East Side. He was well known for his humor, storytelling, and love of laughter.
Above all, Delbert was a devoted and loving grandfather. He shared a special bond with his granddaughter, whom he lovingly called his “buddy.” He cherished time spent with family and friends and found great joy in their company.
Delbert was preceded in death by his parents, Levi and Hazel McGuire, and his siblings: Mary Jane Bates, Levi, Marvin, Manvel, Marlene Stafford, and Marilyn Page.
He is survived by his daughter, Tanisha McGuire (William) of Columbus, Ohio; his son, Quentin Williams of Dallas, Texas; his sister, Margie Williams of Des Moines, Iowa; his granddaughter, Keziah; and many extended family members and friends.
Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines.
As a final salute to his service, courage, and sacrifice, Delbert McGuire will be honored with military rites immediately following the visitation, remembering a proud Marine and a true American hero.
The family invites guests to stay for a repass to be held in the CDP Community Room on the second level of the funeral home from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Delbert will be laid to rest at Iowa Veterans Cemetery.
Lillie (McGregor) Ward
01/26/2026
R.I.P. big Cousin. Thank you for protecting our freedom. Gone but never forgotten...