Hugh Donald "Don" Cavanaugh

On October 3, 1946, a 10-pound baby boy was born to Hugh Joseph and Doris Louise Cavanaugh of Woodward, Iowa, and was named Hugh Donald. He later came to be called Donnie and then just Don. He grew up and was baptized in the Woodward Methodist Church. He attended Woodward schools until graduation in 1964. In that same class was Drue Jessen. In high school they began dating and were engaged in December of 1964. After serving his country in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne, he married Drue on June 15, 1968, at Woodward Methodist Church. They were blessed with two beautiful girls, Corbette Jae and Morgan Lyn. Don and family joined Covenant Christian Church in the early 1970's.

Most of Don's working years were spent at Pioneer Hybrid in Quality Control. He enjoyed watching his daughters in dance recitals and sports, mainly softball and even spent time on the sidelines coaching. In the summer of 1993, the family took a trip to Ireland making many wonderful memories.

Don was preceded in death by his grandparents, parents, and his younger brother Ken Cavanaugh. He was also preceded in death by his Army brothers who greeted him home with their given slogan "On time."

Left to miss him are his wife, Drue, daughters Corby Roberts and Morgan (Jason) Hoover, five wonderful grandkids: Derek Roberts, Ethan Roberts, Miles Hoover, Garin Hoover, and Alexa Hoover. Also, those who cherish his memory are his sister, Jan Cavanaugh, his sister-in-law, Lanita Cavanaugh, as well as many relatives, friends, Army brothers, and staff and friends at Kennybrook Village.

To celebrate his legacy, the family will use memorial gifts to support a charity close to his heart. The family would like to thank all his doctors, nurses, and healthcare staff at Kennybrook Village, and the hospice care team from Suncrest Hospice for the care and compassion given to Don and the family during this difficult time. Thanks to everyone for cherishing his memory and supporting his family.

There will be a visitation from 9:00 -11:00 AM with a memorial service beginning at 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Covenant Christian Church, 2700 72nd St, Urbandale, IA. All are invited to stay for a luncheon following the service to share memories and fun stories of Don. Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com. Arrangements by Iles Westover Chapel.