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Danele "Dani" Renae Stites
Danele "Dani" Renae Stites
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Danele "Dani" Stites Obituary
There will be a Celebration of Life on September 9th at 1:00 pm. at Pleasant Creek Recreation Area East shelter, near Palo. Casual, weather appropriate dress.
She is survived by her step daughter Sarah Krus of Johnstown Co., 4 grandchildren, two brothers Doug (Laura) McDonough of Ft Meyers FL, Dan McDonough of Tallmadge OH, a sister Diane Stammeyer of Marion IA, many nieces and nephews and several great nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a nephew.
Danele was born on November 19,1959 in Cedar Rapids to John and Edna McDonough.
After graduating from Kennedy in 1978 she attended the Colorado Institute of Art in Denver, She also attended Northwest Schools and received an Associate in Travel and travel agent training. Danele was a talented artist and gifted photographer. Her favorite subjects were nature and all animals, including the many dogs, cats and horses she owned over the years.
On August 8,1993 she married Dave Stites and became a part of his, and his daughter Sarah's family, she enjoyed the life she had with them and although they divorced in 2005 she spoke often and fondly of that part of her life.
Danele moved back to Iowa in 2014, in 2017 her parents health started to rapidly decline and she was there to help them out with their medical issues, many appointments and errand running, and she kept them healthy as possible during the pandemic all with a smile on her face. She was a great friend and always offered her help where needed. She could see the beauty in everything and she had an infectious laugh, it didn't matter if you knew why she was laughing, you were going to be laughing as well. It is her colorful, easy-going, free spirited nature that will be missed by many. Despite dying young Danele lived a full life and left behind a legacy of her love of nature in her photography.
"In awe of Wildlife. Fascinated by Nature. Inspired by Color." Dani Stites
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Tami Shoemate-Benson
July 17, 2024
Dani was a wonderful boss of us at Oracle. She is so sweet and kind and a friend to all. She will be missed condolences to her family and friends.
Angela
March 21, 2024
I´ve followed Dani´s photography for years. Since way back just before 9/11 when she´d talk about it with a light in her eyes. I was very young when I had the joy of working for her. Her very calm and caring nature always exuded her. After a documentary on TV this evening, I thought about her. Went to go and check up as I haven´t been on social media in a while for good reasons. I was shocked and saddened. Equally overjoyed by the overpouring of love for her and her light and love. Condolences to all who knew and loved her. And Dani, I hope you´re running with the horses!
Sherry McClure Rainer
September 11, 2023
Dani was the big sister I always wanted and the McDonough's treated us like family. Growing up next door to them was wonderful and I have many great memories of hanging out with Dani. Visiting the horse farm nearby, walking to tastee freeze in the summer or the pool at noelridge and many more. RIP Dani, you're loved and missed.
Diane
September 11, 2023
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Diane
September 11, 2023
Lisa
September 6, 2023
Lisa
September 6, 2023
Lisa
September 6, 2023
Lisa
September 6, 2023
We have known Danele since junior high and high school Ive attached High school reunions photos! She was always happy and so funny! We were the lucky ones to be in her circle of friends, we were neighbors on Ozark St too! I will always remember her beautiful art works and love of animals! I loved our friendship over the last 50 years- rest in peace my sweet girlfriend! Steve and I will miss you and our prayers are with your family and friends.
Lisa and Steve Fratzke
Rob and Leann Stites
September 6, 2023
May you rest in peace Dani. Our sincere condolences to the family.
Rob and Leann Stites
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