Denise DiAnne "Peanut" Blakeman

Denise DiAnne Blakeman, 68, passed away at home after a hard-fought battle with lung cancer. Funeral services will take place at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, March 20, 2026, at Iles Grandview Park Chapel in Des Moines. Family will greet guests from 10:00-12:00 p.m. prior to the service.

Denise was born on April 24, 1957, in Des Moines to Donald and Stella "Maxine" (Grimm) Disbrow, and was a proud lifelong Des Moines resident. She grew up on the east side and graduated from East High School, always considering herself a "Proud Eastsider."

Following high school, Denise worked briefly in legal aid before finding her true calling. She opened her own in-home daycare, where she lovingly cared for children and supported families for more than 35 years. Her home was a place of warmth, structure, and kindness, and she made a lasting impact on countless lives.

Denise had a deep love for sports. She was a devoted fan of the Chicago Bears and the New York Yankees. She especially cherished watching her grandchildren play sports and had a special appreciation for girls' softball. Outside of sports, Denise enjoyed baking, shopping, and giving thoughtful gifts, her way of showing love to those around her.

She shared a special bond with her great-grandson Rylo. Denise affectionately called him "Peanut," and in a sweet turn of love, he began calling her "Peanut" as well. From then on, she lovingly called him "Lovey," a nickname that reflected the deep connection they shared.

Above all, Denise treasured her family. She was deeply devoted to her daughters, Courtney and Jenny, and absolutely adored her grandchildren, finding her greatest joy and purpose in loving, supporting, and cherishing them every single day. Her niece, Sara Mae and nephew, Ronnie (Dink), held a special place in her heart and brought her constant pride and unwavering love. She was lovable, funny, caring, sassy, humble, and simple in the best ways. Her presence brought comfort and joy to those who knew her.

Denise is survived by her daughters, Courtney (Bert Robbins) Blakeman of Des Moines and Jenny (Heath) Galvin of Grimes; sisters, Dena (Mike Anderson) Young of Pleasant Hill and Shari Bohlen of Coolidge, Arizona; grandchildren: Josie Lucas, Parker Robbins, Lilly Robbins, Avery Galvin, Aiden Galvin, and Hunter Galvin; great grandson, Rylo Dentis; her cousins and best friends, Neal and Terri Charter; and many other loving cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Donald "Donnie" Disbrow.