Darrell Ankrum Sr.

Darrell Dewayne Ankrum Sr., 80, of Marshalltown died Wednesday, April 1st 2009 at his home while in the care of Iowa River Hospice, and his loving family by his side. A celebration of Darrells life will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 4th at Hope United Methodist Church with Pastor Scott Lothe officiating. Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Friday at the Mitchell Family Funeral Home. Darrell will be laid to rest in Rose Hill Memorial Gardens with full military honors provided by the VFW Harry C. Harter Post 839 of Marshalltown. Memorials may be directed to the family. For condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com. The Mitchell Family Funeral Home is caring for Darrell and his family, phone 641-844-1234. Darrell was born near Gladbrook on April 28th, 1928 to parents Ralph and Aganna (Hoop) Ankrum. At an early age, the family moved to rural Clemons. Darrell received his education at St. Anthony. On June 29th, 1950 Darrell was united in marriage to Esther Bottema at First United Methodist Church in Marshalltown. In October of 1950, Darrell was drafted into the Army, serving 2 years in Korea. Upon his discharge, he returned to Marshalltown where he and Esther made their home. Darrell then worked at Central Ice Co. and Doyen Feed Co. In 1966, Darrell went to work for Swift & Co. where he worked for the next 20 years. After retirement, and for the last 18 years, Darrell drove a school bus for Marshalltown schools. Darrell was a devoted husband and father. He enjoyed being with his family, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He enjoyed watching Hawkeye basketball, traveling, and going out to eat- especially at Ryan Steak House and OJs Diner. Left to cherish Darrells memory, and mourn their loss, is his loving wife Esther; his daughter Vicki (Dennis) Neel of Marshalltown, his son Darrell Jr. (Donella) of Melbourne, and his daughter Diane (Ron) Deters of Haverhill; grandchildren Chris Bracy of Haverhill, Darcie Oelberg of Carlisle, Jennifer Bracy of Haverhill, Mindy Ankrum of Ankeny, Kim Neel of Denver, CO, and Carri Ankrum of Macomb, IL; and five great-grandchildren, as well as many friends. In death, Darrell has rejoined his parents, his son Jeffrey whom died in infancy, six step-sisters, and two step-brothers.