The Life of DONALD BERNARD MIENKE
Don Mienke, 69, passed away Friday, November 26, 2010, at Mercy Hospice in Johnston with his family beside him, a benefit he earned from having spent his entire life supporting and honoring them.
He was born March 24, 1941, in Fenton, Iowa to George and Lucile Mienke. Above all else, he appreciated the simple things in life like his faith, family and friends. He loved watching his kids and grandkids participate in sports while heckling the umpires. He also enjoyed camping, fishing, tinkering with old engines, and an occasional trip to the casino.
He retired from R.R. Donnelley and Meredith Publishing. He was involved in All Saints Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. He was also an active member of the G.C.I.U. Local #86.
He is survived by his wife Bridget of 50 years; sons Scott (Traci), Todd (Lesley), and Kevin (Janet), and daughter Michele (Jay) Knudsen, Jr.; his five grandchildren Erica, Jarrod, Andrew, Amy, and Colton; his siblings James (LaVonne), Mary (Keith) Anderson; many nieces and nephews; and his two dogs Snooks and Snickers. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Frank.
Funeral services will be 10:00 am, Wednesday, December 1, 2010, at All Saints Catholic Church, 650 NE 52nd Avenue, with burial to follow at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery. Family will visit with friends from 5 to 7 pm Tuesday at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Avenue, Des Moines, with a prayer vigil afterwards.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family and the family will determine the charity at a later date.
The family would like to thank Mercy Hospice and his home care providers Steffanie and Mark.