Warren M. Hunsberger, Sr.

July 31, 2018

Service Details

Warren M. Hunsberger Sr. died July 31, 2018 in West Des Moines, from complications of dementia and heart disease. He was 88 years old.

He was born Warren Maurice Hunsberger on August 3, 1929, to Maurice Everett Hunsberger and Nellie Mildred Bruce Hunsberger in Des Moines, Iowa. He spent his entire life in the Des Moines area. He was the only child of his parents’ marriage but had a half-brother, Bruce Hunsberger, from his mother’s previous marriage to William Smith. Warren was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Dorothea Jean Stevens Hunsberger; his parents; his stepfather, James McCoy; his half-brother; and grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other relatives.

He joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1946 at the age of 16 and was honorably discharged in 1947. After graduating from North High School in 1948, he attended both Grand View College and Drake University where he majored in history. Warren married Dorothea Jean Stevens Hunsberger of Osceola, Iowa on February 14, 1953, and was the father of four children. He worked for several companies in Des Moines, and his jobs included a position as bellhop at the Hotel Fort Des Moines and selling real estate for Stanbrough Realty. He owned Custom Built Homes, a home-building business that he operated for many years, until his retirement in 1986. Real estate and land values were his passion his entire adult life. Warren and Jean made their home in Des Moines throughout their marriage, and after his retirement, they lived in Johnston, Iowa. His family and marriage were important to him, and he was a devoted husband to his wife and a supportive father and grandfather. He was proud of all of his children’s accomplishments. While his children were in high school, Warren was involved in East High Boosters. His hobbies included viewing sports, walking, and playing golf. He stayed abreast of local and world events and enjoyed spirited discussions of all kinds—especially those on sports and current affairs.

Warren watched carefully over his wife in later years after she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and he was her main caregiver. He was diligent and tenacious about ensuring that his wife was comfortable and content.

He is survived by his four children: Warren Maurice Hunsberger Jr. (Gay), Wesley Robert Hunsberger (Mark Holub), Lauren Hunsberger Welch (Paul) and John Richard Hunsberger (Michele). He had 14 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. His family will miss his sense of humor, love, and support.

The family thanks the caring staff at Arbor Springs in West Des Moines that made Warren’s last years as comfortable and pleasant as possible. Finally, the family thanks the expert staff at Suncrest Hospice who assisted Arbor Springs with Warren’s care during the past few years. Warren requested there be no visitation or funeral. In lieu of flowers, the family requests any contributions be given to the Alzheimer’s Association in Warren’s name. Cards may be sent to Wes Hunsberger, 1054 45th St., Des Moines, IA 50311.

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