Douglas Van Vark

Douglas Van Vark, age 64, of Leighton, passed away on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at his home in Leighton. He was born on February 13, 1961, in Oskaloosa, Iowa, the son of Donald and Grace Carol (Williams) Van Vark. He attended school in Oskaloosa and Colorado. On November 3, 1979, he was united in marriage to Connie Morrison at the Methodist Church in Monroe, Iowa.
Doug spent his adult life working in construction, a trade he took great pride in. He worked for many years at Kelderman's and later at Van Gorps. He retired in 2023. Doug also devoted many years helping Don Adair. Outside of work, he loved the outdoors and found joy in fishing, hunting, and mushroom hunting.
He is survived by his wife, Connie Van Vark of Leighton, his children, Danyale Simpson of Ottumwa, Anthony (Christina) Van Vark of Pella and Shauna Van Vark of Oskaloosa, his grandchildren, Jordan Simpson, Hailey (Noah) Van Vark, Ryot Van Vark, Colton Van Vark, Kayla Van Vark, Bailey Van Vark, and his brother, David (Sheila) Van Vark.
Doug is preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Deedra, and a brother, Dennis Van Vark.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the Bates Funeral Chapel in Oskaloosa with Doug's family present to greet relatives and friends. As was his wish, cremation will take place after the visitation. The Bates Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family.