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BORN
1937
DIED
2017
FUNERAL HOME
Michael Wonders Obituary
Des Moines
Michael Wonders, 79, passed away at Mercy Hospital on Wednesday, January 25, 2017 surrounded by loved ones. Funeral services will be held 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, January 31st at McLaren's Chapel. A private inurnment will be held at Resthaven Mausoleum at a later date.
Michael was born on October 4, 1937 to Ruby and Lloyd Wonders in Newton, Iowa. He lived the majority of his life in Des Moines with his partner of fifty years, LaVerne Johnson.
Michael served in the U.S. Army for four years and retired from a long fulfilling career at Meredith Corporation in 2001. His greatest joys in life included entertaining, finding diamonds in the rough, and creating beautiful art and arrangements. In his later life, he could often be found reading a James Patterson novel, walking the mall, and enjoying time with friends and loved ones.
Michael was preceded in death by his siblings, Donna Maddex, Dean, Bill, and Jack. He is survived by his life partner, LaVerne Johnson; daughter, Kelle (John) Collins; three grandchildren, Katie (Clint) Manny, Bryan Collins, Molly Collins; and three great-grandchildren, Avery, Ryer, and Parker Manny.
Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at McLaren's Chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the ARL as Michael truly loved animals.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Wonders
Sponsored by McLaren’s Resthaven Chapel & Mortuary & Resthaven Cemetery.
February 1, 2017
I remember Mike for that great smile and fun personality - you have my deepest sympathy and condolences. Linda Kephart
Beverly Rivers
January 30, 2017
I remember Mike fondly. We photographed at his home for Christmas one year. It was lovely. He was always such a happy person and I was glad each day to see him in the studio or at lunch, or just coming in in the morning. Thank you Mike for being a Meredith friend. Prayers for your loved ones. Bev Brower Rivers
Rhonda Phillips
January 30, 2017
Michael was perhaps the kindest most gentle person I have had the privilege of knowing. He and I shared many good conversations. It was a blessing knowing him and I know he'll be sorely missed. My deepest sympathy to you Laverne. I know you loved him deeply. May God comfort you in this difficult time. Rhonda Phillips.
Rhonda Phillips
January 30, 2017
Michael was perhaps the kindest most gentle person I have had the privilege of knowing. He and I shared many good conversations. It was a blessing knowing him and I know he'll be sorely missed. My deepest sympathy to you Laverne. I know you loved him deeply. May God comfort you in this difficult time. Rhonda Phillips.
Marilyn Boyle
January 30, 2017
My sympathy and prayers go to the Wonders and Johnson families. Mike will be remembered as a shining light in the class of North High School 1956. May his light shine in heaven. Teach the angels to be snappy dressers. Love and prayers, Marilyn (Allgood) Boyle WDM, IA
Kenny Wolf
January 29, 2017
To the Wonders family, our sympathy
and condolences ,during these grieving
times.
The Wolf family, Pam, Kenny & Richard
Dottie and Don Hagan
January 28, 2017
Michael was a truly wonderful and caring person. He will be missed and added many wonderful memories for us. Our thoughts are with LaVerne and Michael's family.
Walter Ladd
January 28, 2017
My condolences to the family and friends of Mike. I used to live next door to his mother Ruby in the 1960's (and down the street from his brother Bill and family), and I remember him from when he stayed with his mother for a short time. I remember him as a very snappy dresser and very ambitious and his mother was so proud of him. He would always wave when I said, "Hi Mike."
June, 1956 North High Graduation
Claradell Shedd
January 28, 2017
The halls of North High are diminished with Michael's passing. Prayers and thoughts to his family and friends. Michael's 1956 class page: http://www.ndmhs.com/pages/yearclass1956(2016.60).html
Claradell Shedd
Class of June, 1953
Michelle Wonders
January 28, 2017
Uncle Mike was a kind and caring uncle and I will miss him very dearly.
Melanie Holtan
January 27, 2017
Michael was a true gentleman and a loving and kind friend. I will miss his smile and his gentle observation of beauty all around him. He made everyone feel special in his presence. He is missed. Melanie Holtan -Adel
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McLaren’s Resthaven Chapel & Mortuary & Resthaven Cemetery801 19th Street, West Des Moines, IA 50265
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