Harold William Degner

A Tribute to Harold Degner written by his family:

Harold William Degner, 98, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2025.

Harold was born April 17, 1927 in Fredericksburg, Iowa to William and Pauline (Paulsen) Degner. Harold proudly served his country as an U.S. Army Private First Class during World War II, a commitment he held with great honor. Following his military service, he received his Bachelor’s Degree from Upper Iowa University and his Master’s Degree from Drake University. Harold pursued a career in education, teaching, Math and Science at Urbandale Middle School for 32 years and coached Track. In previous years, he coached girls’ basketball in Minburn, Iowa.

Harold impacted the lives of thousands of students and dedicated his career to inspiring students. He was a longtime member of several professional organizations, including the National Education Association, the Iowa State Education Association, and the Urbandale Education Association reflecting his deep dedication to the field of education.

On April 15, 1950, Harold married the love of his life, Delores (Meighan). Together they shared 63 wonderful years of marriage until her passing. They were blessed with three children: Deborah Haugen of Waukee, IA, Dennis Degner of Pattaya, Thailand, and Daryl Degner (Barbara Hale, fiancé) of Urbandale, IA. He was a proud grandfather to Dylan Degner and Ciara (Alex) Fangmann; a doting great-grandfather to Oliver, Mariella, and Theodore; and step-granddaughter, Meagan. Uncle Harold leaves behind many nieces and nephews who love him dearly: Karen Ellsworth, Don Gitch, Carla Mikes, Aaron O’Day, Paula O’Day, Bernard Snyder, Joann Snyder, Stacey Paulson, Zepha Monks, Susanne Peterson, Peggy Nelsen, Roger Stickley, Jackey Meighan, Mary Day, Duane Meighan, Mike Meighan, and Pat Meighan.

Harold was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Delores; and his five sisters, Gertrude Mikes, Ruth Gruenberg, Evelyn Hunt, Lurline O’Day, and Luella Gitch.

Harold enjoyed going to the Iowa State Fair for many days each year. He got a kick out of going to concerts, snowmobiling, going to his grandchildren’s sporting events and camping. He loved sitting out in his backyard with nature and the birds singing. He loved cars and was a master at waxing them. He took great pride in his flowers and lawn. His favorite hobby was grocery shopping with coupons and being thrifty to provide for his family. He was of the “Greatest Generation”. Roller skating was a favorite where he met Delores.

Harold will be remembered as a devoted family man, a proud veteran, and a respected teacher. Though firm as a disciplinarian, he had a warm sense of humor, a generous heart, and a sweet tooth-especially French Silk pie, his favorite. His legacy of love, dedication, and laughter will live through his family and all who knew him.


Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 30, 2025 at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway in West Des Moines, Iowa. Funeral services the next day, Wednesday, October 1st at 10:30 a.m. followed by burial with full military honors at Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter, Iowa.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family in loving memory of Harold and
condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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