Halford B. Hunnell

Halford B. Hunnell, 101, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2026, at Mercy One Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa.

Halford "Hal" Hunnell was born on October 31, 1924, in Runnells, Iowa, to Jesse and Anna (Vaughn) Hunnell. Following a family tradition of military service dating back to the Civil War, Hal enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps, known today as the United States Air Force, during World War II.

He served as a radio operator and was a qualified pistol marksman. During his military service, he was deployed to Australia, New Guinea, the Philippines, and Okinawa, Japan, traveling mainly in a P-38 fighter plane. At the end of World War II, he received two Bronze Service Stars. Hal was honorably discharged on December 30, 1945, at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, and returned home to Des Moines, Iowa, where he spent the remainder of his life.

Hal is a graduate of Runnells High School. After returning home from World War II, Hal worked a variety of jobs before joining Iowa Power and Light, where he spent 37 years before retiring in 1985.

As an avid gardener, Hal found great joy in tending his garden and spending time outdoors. He was a member of the former Marquisville United Methodist Church, a lifetime member of VFW Post 9662, and a charter member of the American Legion Post.

Hal is survived by his daughter, Jane (Wes) Hagman of Oregon; his son, John (Lisa) Hunnell of Des Moines, Iowa; his sister, Linda Wichhardt of Florida; two grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and his longtime friend, Marie Thayer.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Donna (Mefford) Hunnell; his brother, Dwight Hunnell; his sisters, Barbara Dawson and Shirley Des Rosiers; and his stepson, Rob Hobson.
Hal's life was defined by service to his country, dedication to his family, and a strong work ethic. His strength, kindness, and feisty character will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.

A graveside service will take place on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery, 1 NE 60th Ave., Des Moines, Iowa.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Runnells American Legion Post #689 P.O. Box 132 Runnells, IA 50237.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com

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