Dean Lee Peyton

Dean Lee Peyton obituary, Des Moines, IA

Dean Lee Peyton

Dean Peyton Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Iles Dunn’s Funeral Home on Jan. 30, 2026.
Dean Lee Peyton of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on January 26, 2026, after losing his battle with cancer. He was 77.

Dean was born on May 17, 1948, to Rolland and Ethel Peyton in Sac City, Iowa. He graduated from Lytton High School in 1966 and received a Bachelor's degree in Business from Iowa State University in 1970. Dean began his 38-year banking career at Brenton Bank and retired from First American Bank in 2009.

He met Diann, his wife of 54 years, at Iowa State University. Together, they built a wonderful life, raising two children, Chris and Allison, and pursuing professional careers they loved. Dean and Diann enjoyed entertaining friends at their homes in Des Moines and Clear Lake. They thrived in retirement, traveling extensively and visiting six of the seven continents, immersing themselves in different cultures, and celebrating the diversity of the world. Dean passed away on the same date as his beloved wife, Diann-an unexpected echo of the love and partnership they shared for a lifetime.

Dean was magnetic. To know him was to love him. He had a warm, welcoming, genuine curiosity that made people feel seen. He was famously organized and impeccably tidy. He was happiest being with his family and friends-whether traveling the world, relaxing in the sunshine or having a cocktail on the boat. He spent much of his life generously giving his time to causes he believed in, including the Animal Rescue League and volunteering at the Brenton Arboretum.

Dean was preceded in death by his parents, Rolland and Ethel, and his beloved wife, Diann. He is survived by his brother Harold (Sue); son, Chris; daughter Allison (Nick) Greif; and four grandchildren: Collins, Lennon, Holden and Madeline.

Chris and Allison would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the quality, professionalism and compassionate care provided by the team members of EveryStep and Home Instead.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, Brenton Arboretum or EveryStep Foundation. Please include a note indicating the donation is in honor of Dean.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date. Dean found his joy in family and travel, and his family asks that you do the same.

Arrangements by Iles Dunn's Chapel.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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