Howard W. Van Zee

Howard Wayne Van Zee was born July 11, 1945, in Des Moines, Iowa to Harry and Thelma Van Zee. He graduated from Prairie City High School where he played drums in the band and was on the football, basketball, and track teams. He was in Boy Scouts and earned the highest honor of Eagle Scout. Howard graduated from Iowa State University where he was a member of Atalante Fraternity and ROTC. Howard was in the Army and served in Vietnam. He was an auditor for the Western Railroad Association, inventory control for Parker Brothers Games, and then purchasing agent for Bob Allen.

Howard was an avid downhill skier. He loved to sail, ride bikes, and go camping. He enjoyed working in the yard and attending to his gardens. Howard found it a joy to help a neighbor with an outdoor task.

Howard passed away Monday, September 29, 2025, at the VA Medical Center in Des Moines. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Judy; two daughters, Patricia (Matthew) Webster and Sherry (Rick) Largesse; grandsons, Derek (Eva) Webster, Daniel Webster, and Beau Largesse; granddaughter, Evelyn Largesse; his brother, Lloyd Van Zee; sisters, Judith Van Zee and Lila Hendricks; and many nieces, nephews, other extended family, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Thelma Van Zee.

Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by funeral service at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, October 11, 2025, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines. Burial will take place at Rising Sun Cemetery after the service.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Meals on Wheels Veterans Program.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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