Debra "Dee" Daniels

Debra Jeanne Daniels passed away quietly early Tuesday morning September 15, 2026.

Dee was born on August 20, 1951 to Earl and Jeanne Spencer Howard. She was the first graduating class of Hoover High School in 1969, and then obtained a degree in Home Ec. specializing in Interior Design from UNI. In her professional life she was a customer service rep at the bank, though she did obtain the lofty title of Bank Manager. She met her husband Richard Daniels while he was coaching her daughter in softball. The two enjoyed country dancing and continued to dance together for over 30 years, especially as they spent the winter time in Texas. Dee was a member of the Red Hat Society and particularly enjoyed pickleball. Her artistic talents showed through as she was the sole female voice in a quartet and sang in community theatre.

Debra is survived by her husband of 33 years Richard Daniels of the home, son BJ Lansing (Tina) of Ankeny, daughter Vanessa Whitinger (Jason) of Ankeny, stepdaughters Jill Van Cleave (Lee) and Julie Hugen (Shawn), her nine grandchildren Taylor Lansing, Cole Lansing, Brianna Lansing, Rylie Whitinger, Dawson Whitinger, McKayla VanCleave, Madison VanCleave, Aidan Hugen, Connor Hugen, and her brother David Howard. She is preceded in death by her parents.

The family will hold a private service at a later time. Memorials may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association of Iowa. For questions or to leave a condolence, please call 641-844-1234 or visit mitchellfh.com. Mitchell Family Funeral Home is honored to serve the Daniels family.

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