Alan William Nagel

Alan William Nagel obituary, Des Moines, IA

Alan William Nagel

Alan Nagel Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Iles Westover Funeral Home on Feb. 12, 2023.

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Alan William Nagel, age 32, died suddenly due to complications from COVID. Alan was born in January 1991 to Paul and Sue Nagel. Alan spent his early years in LeClaire, Iowa, where he developed a life-long fondness for the Mississippi River.
Alan attended Johnston Middle School and High School where he forged many wonderful friendships through the many activities he enjoyed. Alan was active in band, choir, and mock trial as well as participating in swimming and football. Alan was also a singer in Heartland Youth Choirs and a National Merit Scholar. Alan attended the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, where he was a Shipman Scholar. Alan earned degrees in Vocal Performance, Philosophy, and Law. Alan valued rich friendships with his fellow Wolverines.
Alan was a dedicated civil servant to the people of Iowa. He began his post-graduate career as a Law Clerk in Iowa's Third Judicial District in Northwest Iowa, where he also coached mock trial. Alan then moved back to the Des Moines area and joined the Iowa Attorney General's Office as an Assistant Attorney General. Alan recently began a new position with the Iowa Civil Rights Commission.
Alan was the proud big brother to Claire Hjelmaas (Alex), Glen Nagel, and Mark Nagel (Téa Grady). Alan was a North Star for his siblings, leading them in academic, athletic, and musical pursuits.
Alan was most excited to be on his life's journey with his longtime partner, Victoria Smith. Alan and Tory met as children on a family camping trip and grew up together, falling in love as teenagers even though they lived in different states. For seven years, Alan and Tory drove many hours to see each other for just a day or two on the weekend. Finally, they finished graduate school and were together in Des Moines for three wonderful years. Alan and Tory's latest adventures included setting up their new home together in Clive and bringing home their beloved corgi, Ruby.
Alan's passions included making and discovering music, Michigan football, playing games with his friends, and spending time on water. Alan's greatest joys were found in his relationships with Tory, their families, and their friends. Alan is survived by his parents, partner, siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins, many friends, and Ruby. Alan was predeceased by his paternal grandparents, Howard and Betty Nagel, his maternal grandparents, Fred and Mary Lou Carlson, and his uncle, Tom Carlson.
A wake will be held on Wednesday, February 15 th at Iles Westover Funeral Home, 6337 Hickman Road, Des Moines, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. A funeral mass will be held on Thursday, February 16 th at St. Cecilia Catholic Church, 220 N. 1 st St., Panora, at 10:00 a.m. A reception will follow at the Iowa Taproom, 215 E. 3 rd St., Des Moines, at 1:00 p.m. All friends and family are welcome to join us at the reception. All are encouraged to bring a photo or a memory to share. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Iowa Public Radio or The University of Michigan's School of Music, Theater, and Dance.
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Sign Alan Nagel's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

February 16, 2023

Alan and Cindy Wells planted trees.

February 13, 2023

Gordy Goettsch posted to the memorial.

February 12, 2023

Joan Kielhorn posted to the memorial.

5 Entries

Single Memorial Tree

Alan and Cindy Wells

Planted Trees

Gordy Goettsch

February 13, 2023

You don´t know me, but I am on the Iowa Board of Nursing, representing the Public. Alan was the AAG representing the State in many of our hearings. I was impressed by his abilities and the heart he showed, and also enjoyed our brief conversations we shared between cases. When I read his obituary, I was amazed at his abilities and broad accomplishments outside of being an attorney.
Too soon gone.
I feel lucky to have experienced him for a brief snapshot of his life, and send my heartfelt condolences to his loved ones and friends.
Gordon Goettsch DDS

Joan Kielhorn

February 12, 2023

I was fortunate to teach Alan at Johnston. His intelligence, inquisitive nature, and humility reached far beyond his years. My condolences to his loved ones. Anyone who knew Alan has a broken heart upon hearing this news.

Single Memorial Tree

Pam and Craig Dixon

Planted Trees

Molly Gehm

February 12, 2023

I am so sorry for your loss

Showing 1 - 5 of 5 results

Iles Westover Funeral Home

6337 Hickman Road, Des Moines, IA 50322

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Sign Alan Nagel's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

February 16, 2023

Alan and Cindy Wells planted trees.

February 13, 2023

Gordy Goettsch posted to the memorial.

February 12, 2023

Joan Kielhorn posted to the memorial.